Sports
Singapore Tourism Board Prepares Haze‑Ready Measures for Formula 1 Grand Prix
Singapore Tourism Board (STB) confirmed that contingency plans are in place for this weekend’s Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix in response to haze concerns. The plans outline actions for various 24‑hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and 1‑hour PM2.5 levels, including keeping attendees at the Marina Bay Street Circuit informed of haze developments and providing medical assistance and N95 masks on site if needed. STB said government agencies are working closely with the race’s promoter, Singapore GP (SGP), to protect health and safety while ensuring the event runs smoothly. "In the event that haze causes visibility, public health or operational issues, the relevant agencies will work closely with SGP to assess the situation before making any collective decisions regarding the event," the agency added. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) noted that some restrictions on outdoor activities such as entertainment might be imposed if haze worsens, but the race itself is not expected to be affected. STB is monitoring the situation with the inter‑agency Haze Task Force led by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and has advised tourism partners to check daily haze outlooks and advisories on the NEA website or the myENV app, and to follow NEA’s precautionary guidance. Previous editions of the Grand Prix have also been impacted by haze. In 2019, when the haze was in the “unhealthy” range, organisers had first‑aid posts on standby and made N95 masks available to vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with chronic heart or lung conditions. That weekend drew 268,000 spectators, the second‑highest attendance in the event’s history. In 2015, the 24‑hour PSI peaked at 139 on race day and rose above 300 in the days after; organisers had all 24 medical posts on standby and offered N95 masks to spectators at cost. PSI readings and health advisories were displayed on the Grand Prix website, mobile app, screens between races and via the circuit’s radio system, and the racing and entertainment programme proceeded as scheduled. As of Thursday, the 24‑hour PSI remained in the “unhealthy” range across Singapore. NEA reported moderate to dense smoke plumes from southern Sumatra drifting toward Singapore, with additional haze from hotspots in Kalimantan. With prevailing southeasterly to southerly winds, the haze could continue to drift toward Singapore.
Frequently asked questions
What measures has STB put in place for the F1 Singapore Grand Prix amid haze?
STB has contingency plans that include keeping attendees informed of haze developments, providing medical assistance, and offering N95 masks on site if needed, based on 24‑hour PSI and 1‑hour PM2.5 levels.
Will the race itself be affected by haze?
The FIA noted that while some restrictions on outdoor activities may be imposed if haze worsens, the race itself is not expected to be affected.
How can tourism partners stay updated on haze conditions?
STB advises partners to check daily haze outlooks and advisories on the NEA website or the myENV app and follow NEA’s precautionary guidance.