After the European finale at Monza ten days ago, one of the season's most straightforward one-stop races in terms of strategy, the Formula One circus has travelled to Singapore, one of the most complex tactical races of the year.
The three softest tyres in the P Zero range – soft, supersoft, and ultrasoft – have once again been brought to Singapore, just as was the case last year, ready for a 61-lap race that normally lasts close to the full two-hour limit, with more than one pit stop.
Added to this unusual challenge are the usual considerations of a non-permanent street circuit: variable levels of low grip, street furniture such as manholes and white lines, as well as a high probability of safety cars: 100% so far in the track's nine-year history.
“Singapore is always one of the most exciting and unpredictable races of the year, in which pit stop strategy often plays a crucial role in the outcome: also because of the near certainty of a safety car at some point during the arduous two hours,” said Mario Isola, head of car racing at Pirelli. “Having said that, pole position has historically had a strong influence on the race win at Marina Bay, so qualifying will be crucial as well.”
“In order to prepare, teams will have to pay particularly close attention to the free practice data as track temperature at night will evolve in quite a different way than it does at a conventional daytime race. Understanding this will be key to getting a good handle on wear and degradation rates, and so implementing an effective tyre strategy”.
