Singapore GP: Pre Grand Prix updates

This year we could see a first night race in the wet. We have had two night races so far and a day-night race at the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix but none that were run under wet conditions. Rain drops glitter under lights (although not an issue when you aren't looking up) and could lead to poor visibility conditions. It would be interesting to see the issues faced by the drivers and the teams if that were to happen.

This has been the closest championship in years. Any of the top five drivers has a realistic chance at winning the championship. The points systems was changed to accommodate the larger grid and to award more for winning a race. For the curious below is how the drivers standings would have been with the old system

1 Lewis Hamilton   75
2 Mark Webber      74
3 Jenson Button    67
4 Fernando Alonso  67
5 Sebastian Vettel 66

After each race the standings as per the old system can be got at our site - http://www.nowf1.com/formula-1-2010-standings-old-points-system.html

Okay so were are back at another high downforce circuit. Marna Bay circuit characteristics is considered to be similar to Hungary and Monaco. Red Bull was ahead of the rest in those races while McLaren struggled. McLaren however expect to be strong this time round. Ferrari expect to be strong too with a new updated diffuser floor and other aero improvements. Take out Ferrari's disappointment at Belgium and in the last four races they have upped their development efforts and the results have shown. Two wins and a second for Fernando Alonso and 5 podiums for Ferrari in the last four races.

We are now at a point where new engines can come at the expense of a 10 place grid penalty. Alonso used his 8th new engine last race while Hamilton, Button and Vettel have 1 available. Mark Webber has two available he alright. Alonso is facing a situation similar to that faced by Vettel last year.

Lotus Racing are set to make a big announcement this week, most likely regarding their engine and transmissions partner for next year. Earlier Cosworth had announced that their deal with Lotus ends this year. With the reintroduction of KERS next year it could be a wise move on their side. Renault is seemingly the front runner at the moment.

Michael Schumacher was caught on camera driving a motorbike on the Sachsenring circuit. Although for it was for fun some might question the risk involved and seems to have attracted negative publicity for Schumacher. All we can say is leave the champion alone. Let him have his fun. Driving that motorbike is something many of us can only dream of :-)