Major change confirmed for Singapore F1 track

The Marina Bay Circuit will feature a major change this weekend for the Singapore Grand Prix.

Having previously utilised three Drag Reduction System (DRS) zones around the track, a fourth zone will be in play this weekend.

Round 18 of the season sees F1 make the trip to Singapore which first hosted a race in 2008.

The circuit has undergone various changes ever since, including last year when Turns 16 to 19 were cut out and instead replaced by a 400-metre straight.

The new section of track did not feature a DRS straight for its maiden season – but that has changed for the 2024 edition as drivers will now be able to activate their rear wing flaps between Turn 14 and 16.

The DRS section will be the final zone to feature on the circuit, adding to the ones already in play between Turn 19 and Turn 1, Turn 5 and Turn 7, as well as Turn 13 and 14.

It is hoped that the extra DRS allowance will help with overtaking the circuit as it becomes only the second venue on the F1 calendar after Albert Park to feature four DRS zones.

Another change that the drivers can look ahead to dealing with is the result of a resurfacing job carried out in several areas. 

Tyre supplier Pirelli has detailed the track has been relayered between Turn 3 and 9, 10 and 12, and 14 and 17, which should provide a “smoother surface”, according to the Italian marque.

Ferrari enter the round at Singapore looking to take a second consecutive win at the venue.