Why was there no Singapore GP in 2020 and 2021?


Why was there no Singapore GP in 2020 and 2021?

Singapore Grand Prix

The Singapore GP is making a return to the F1 calendar after a hiatus of two years, and with the help of this piece, we are going to try and dissect the reasons behind its absence.

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The Marina Bay Circuit in Singapore holds an important place in F1 as it was the inaugural night race and the first street circuit in Asia designed for hosting F1 races.

Moreover, so far 20 races have taken place on the Circuit, and former four-time World Champion, Sebastian Vettel has won it the most times with five wins to his name.

The SingaporeGP is one of the main attractions whenever an F1 calendar comes out, however, fans were denied the opportunity of seeing a race on the famous street circuit for the last two years because of Covid-19.

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Singapore GP
Singapore GP

The first case of Covid-19 was reported on the 31st of December 2019, and since then, the virus spread at an insane pace up till recently and brought the World to its knees.

Singapore was one of the worst hit countries because of Covid, and while F1 races took place despite the pandemic at certain circuits, it just was not feasible to host a race in Singapore because the country during 2020 and 2021 had its hands full tackling the Covid problem.

Also Read: “Leclerc owned him in 2020 so no” – Fans debate if Sebastian Vettel would have led the drivers’ championship in a 2022 Ferrari

Singapore GP did not take place during 2021 as well

Singapore Grand Prix
Singapore Grand Prix

While Singapore was a no-show during 2020, there was slight hope among the fans that the race might return for 2021, however, it just wasn’t to be and while talking about the situation, the Deputy Chairman of Singapore GP that year said, “To cancel the event for a second year is an incredibly difficult decision, but a necessary one in light of the prevailing restrictions for live events in Singapore.”

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We would not be able to deliver a full event experience fans have come to expect over the years while safeguarding the health and safety of our fans, contractors, volunteers, and staff.”

The authority at the Marina Bay Circuit sighted health-related issues as one of the main reasons for not being able to hold the race and, at that moment, it was totally understandable considering how badly the World was affected by the pandemic.

Singapore Grand Prix
Singapore Grand Prix

However, the pandemic is now breathing its final few breaths all over the Globe, and also with Singapore making a solid recovery, the Marina Bay spectacle is back and will witness F1 cars zooming around from 30th September onwards.

Also Read: “We will continue to fight for victory,” Ferrari to bring in fresh upgrades to challenge Red Bull

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