As the dust settles on the Presidential Election, all eyes are now fixated on the unfolding drama surrounding the former Transport Minister S. Iswaran and the CPIB probe. But amidst the whirlwind of events, one question remains paramount: will the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 still race ahead as planned?
Well, buckle up, because according to Dr Tan See Leng, it’s all systems go.
F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 to Go on at “Full Speed” Despite CPIB Probe
Dr Tan See Leng, the Manpower Minister who also doubles as the Second Minister for Trade and Industry, has assured that the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 will not be stalled by the ongoing investigations.
If you’re wondering why people associated the probe with the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, you should watch this to the end:
Speaking at the sidelines of the Italian Grand Prix screening at HDB Hub in Toa Payoh, Dr Tan stated, “The show goes on. And I can tell you that if you look at all of the events, everything is moving at full speed. There’s no holding back of any other events whatsoever.”
He further added, fueling the excitement of race enthusiasts, “Based on our ticket sales, it is very promising. I think this is going to be an exciting event moving forward.”
Well, how about the CPIB probe? Is it moving in “full speed?”
When approached about the ongoing investigations, Dr Tan adopted a cautious stance, stating, “As far as the investigations, they are still ongoing, so I don’t think I should comment on them. Neither am I able to comment on them anyway.”
He urged patience, adding, “So let’s wait for the authorities to come out. But I think this event promises to be one where everyone will remember.”
As the CPIB probe races on, it has seen the arrest and subsequent bail release of Mr Ong Beng Seng and Transport Minister S Iswaran in July.
Mr Ong, a billionaire businessman credited with a pivotal role in bringing the first night race to Singapore in 2007, remains at the helm of the Singapore Grand Prix, steering its course steadfastly.
The contract for Singapore to host the F1 Grand Prix was renewed last year, marking the longest extension in its history.
Despite a predicted dip in attendance due to redevelopment efforts at The Float @ Marina Bay, the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 promises to be a grand affair, much like a lavish Peranakan wedding but with faster cars and louder engines.
From 15 to 17 September, the night race is expected to attract a whopping 250,000 spectators, maintaining the average attendance since its inception in 2008.
Dr Tan reassured that the slight drop in attendance numbers would be counterbalanced by a plethora of exciting activities lined up to entertain the masses.
“There’s a whole exciting slew of activities that has been lined up, and I want to add that the performing artists so far … they are equally excited in coming here as well.” The entertainment roster is set to dazzle, featuring international stars like US rapper Post Malone, British pop sensation Robbie Williams, and American rock band Kings of Leon.
Moreover, the Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS) is gearing up to present a series of events and precinct parties from 8 to 17 September, promising a carnival of fun and festivity.
From the vibrant streets of Orchard Road to the lively Clarke Quay, the GPSS aims to showcase the pulsating lifestyle experiences Singapore has to offer, with a sprinkle of art and entertainment to spice things up.
Of course, the question we all have is…would the probe reach the finishing line than the race?