Singapore confirms changes to its circuit

The Singapore Grand Prix has just confirmed that changes will be made to its F1 track for the 2009 race.

Although last year the event was a huge success, winning numerous awards in the process, the race directors want to ensure an even more successful 2009 Grand Prix.

After consulting with the teams and the FIA, changes will be made to turns 13 and 14 to increase overtaking opportunities. The bumps on turn 7 will be smoothed out, again to increase opportunities.

After complaints in 2008 about too many bumps, work will be undertaken on turns 5, 6, and 7. The pit lane, at its entry and exit, will be revised to avoid the problems highlighted last year.

The circuit’s operations director, Michael McDonough said: « Although the circuit and the event exceeded all expectations in 2008, there are always things to improve. »

« Minor modifications are proposed for turns 13 and 14 to improve overtaking opportunities, while the main changes will focus on the entry and exit of the pitlane. The goal is to provide drivers with a greater safety margin when entering or exiting the pitlane. »

« Turn 13 after the Anderson Bridge will be accelerated in order to increase speed on Esplanade Drive, and therefore have much more severe braking at turn 14. »

Another change will be made to the runoff area of turn 22 to improve facilities for spectators.