Singapore will host a round of the 2008 FIA Formula One World Championship, it was confirmed on Friday. The race, to be held on a new street circuit, will be the first night-time event in Formula One history.

The announcement follows the agreement of a five-year deal between FOM CEO Bernie Ecclestone, Singapore entrepreneur Mr Ong Beng Seng, and the Singapore Tourism Board.

"I am very pleased to welcome Singapore to the Formula One family and we look forward to this exotic addition to the championship," said Ecclestone. "This will be the first fully lit street race in Formula One.

"As a night race we anticipate it will quickly establish itself as one of the most dramatic and atmospheric races on our calendar. I know the Formula One drivers, teams and fans are all looking forward to coming to Singapore next year."

The new race is scheduled to take place towards the end of the calendar in September or October. The timing of the night event means it can be broadcast at a convenient time for European TV audiences as well as thrilling local fans. It is also expected to have a hugely positive economic impact on the region.

"We are delighted to have reached a deal to bring this landmark event to Singapore, and look forward to working with F1, the Singapore Tourism Board and the business community to deliver a great race and vibrant support events together with the very best of Singapore's famed hospitality and cuisine." Ong added.

The Singapore Grand Prix will take place on public roads around the Marina Bay area. The design proposal includes powerful lighting systems that will replicate daylight conditions and the most stringent safety protocols will be applied to ensure driver and spectator safety.

Grandstand seating and hospitality areas lining the track will be able to accommodate more than 80,000 spectators, while a permanent pit area with deluxe paddock facilities will be built adjacent to the existing Singapore Flyer complex.

"It will be more than just a motor race," commented Singapore's Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Mr S Iswaran. "We envision it to be a national festival, and one that presents many opportunities for participation for everyone, both visitors and Singaporeans alike.

"Singaporeans are excited about the race coming to Singapore and I share their enthusiasm. Singapore looks forward to welcoming the Formula One drivers, teams and fans to Singapore next year."

The Singapore Grand Prix will be managed by Singapore GP Pte Ltd, a newly incorporated race promotion company formed between Komoco Motors and regional events company Lushington Entertainments, via its parent company Reef Enterprises.

Hamilton tops first practice
hermm  interesting... after a strong performance by ferrari in testing last week...mclaren manage to be 1-2 in first practice...n look at aguri,superb...

okaaaaaaaaaayy.... How the hell the Renault ends so high up?

Despite some late runs on new rubber from the Renault team, Alonso remained fastest of the day with a best lap of 1:21.397s. Perhaps more importantly for Alonso, he was significantly faster than Hamilton over the long distance runs, something that should pay dividends as the weekend unfolds.

Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen vaulted up the order right at the end of the session to set the second and third fastest times respectively. In fairness, while the times were impressive, the Renault duo were somewhat out of sequence with their rivals who did not go for a quick run at the close of Friday play.

mean singapore will host the race on sunday or saturday night?then ppl no need to sleep esp those who need to work on monday??