A controversial change to the Singapore Grand Prix circuit has divided F1 fans on social media ahead of this weekend's race. As always, it will be held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, which has become one of the sport's most iconic venues since it was introduced back in 2008.
The layout has been changed several times over the years, including the removal of the infamous 'Singapore Sling' chicane and other slower-speed corners. Another subtle tweak has been made this year, but it hasn't proven universally popular.
Turn 10 Wall Streamlined
The outer wall at the entry to Turn 10 has been streamlined to reduce the risk of drivers running into trouble at that part of the circuit. The old wall protruded slightly, catching out George Russell in 2023 and Lando Norris the following year.
The new wall, however, has been reshaped to follow the curve of the corner and sits further away from the racing line. While the move lowers the risk of drivers catching the wall with their rear tyre and crashing, it also reduces the difficulty of navigating the corner.
Fans React on Social Media
Some fans on X (formerly Twitter) have reacted furiously to the change, with @carefreejonty writing: "So so close to giving up with this sport."
@dripregiment added: "Taking away the best part of street circuits. It’s getting scary," while @ChangweMulenga2 said: "Ain't these the best drivers in the world? Why make things easier for them?"
@coach_mikey, meanwhile, moaned: "Can’t race in the rain, can’t have tracks that create any sort of talent to drive around. Game's gone."
Support for the Change
Others were more supportive of the change, accusing the naysayers of being dramatic and suggesting that more space on tight street circuits can only be a good thing.
@OPrimark said: "This is quite far down the list of things wrong with F1," while @zir07 added: "Street circuits suck. Anything they do increase space marginally is good."
@OlegWR fired back: "What is really so bad about this other then you complaining about it for the sake of complaining? Acting like this is the first time a part of a street track has ever been changed in any series."
Max Verstappen will be hoping to secure back-to-back victories in Singapore this weekend after winning his first race of the year in Malaysia last time around.
He will be rivalled by Kimi Antonelli, who is within touching distance of claiming his maiden Drivers' Championship title, especially with his Mercedes team-mate Russell starting from the back of the grid after taking a new power unit.
