As the F1 Singapore Grand Prix unfolded this past weekend, eyes were fixated on the key figure behind the premiere international racing event.
In a series of political dramas in Singapore this past year, hotelier and billionaire Ong Beng Seng was recently embroiled in a corruption scandal involving Transport Minister Iswaran.
Despite his release on bail, one question remains: Will he show up at the racing event or keep a low profile with the investigations surrounding him?
Despite the ongoing probe by the CPIB, Ong was spotted in the paddock last weekend at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix.
Well, spoiler alert: Ong didn’t just attend; he was seen living it up in the paddock area.
Ong Beng Seng Made an Appearance at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023
The 79-year-old was all smiles, captured in photos alongside Moko, one of the designers behind the fashion and jewellery brand Chrome Hearts.
Rocking a light blue shirt with a striped pocket, Ong mingled with the elite, chatting with guests and making a tour around the paddock.
Moko seemed to enjoy Ong’s company, even throwing an arm around his shoulders.
In short, Ong was doing what he does best, networking with the elite and reminding everyone why he’s the guy who made F1 a Singaporean phenomenon.
Of course, it only makes sense for him to be there. He brought F1 to Singapore.
Arrested Due to CPIB Probe but Released on Bail
Ong was arrested on 11 July alongside Iswaran but was released upon bail.
As part of bail conditions, the passports of both Ong and Iswaran have been impounded.
However, despite having his passport confiscated as part of the bail conditions, Ong managed to jet off to Bali.
His request to travel overseas was assessed and approved by the CPIB.
Upon his return from Bali, Ong dutifully handed over his passport to the CPIB.
Why is this scandal such a big deal in the F1 community? You should watch this to the end:
Ong is a Malaysian hotelier and businessman credited with a pivotal role in bringing the first night race to Singapore.
As the chairman of the race promoter Singapore Grand Prix, he holds the rights to the race in Singapore.
Ong leveraged his friendship with F1 boss Bernie Eccleston to seal the deal back in 2007 after a year of intense negotiations.
Last year, the contract to host the F1 Grand Prix in Singapore was renewed, marking the longest extension in its history.
While the CPIB investigation is still ongoing, Ong’s presence at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix isn’t just for show. He’s a cornerstone of the event, and thanks to him, Singaporeans can proudly say the Grand Prix is a part of our national identity.
As for the CPIB investigation? Well, we’re all still waiting for the next update from the CPIB.