Singapore track Tweaked for Performance

JENSON Button could be crowned world champion before the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix from Sept 25-27, but race organisers are confident it won’t lessen interest in the Formula 1 night race here.
Brawn GP’s Button has won all but one of the season’s seven races so far and is on course to wrapping up the drivers’ championship before the Singapore race, the 14th of the 2009 Formula 1 season.“It is less about the championship situation and more about the overall experience ticket holders can expect both on and off the track,” said Singapore GP media and communications director Jonathan Hallett, at a briefing on the progress of modifications to the street track yesterday.“And with over 200 performers already confirmed and more to come, you will never be far from world-class entertainment both on and off the track.
”Last week, Singapore GP rolled out their first list of entertainers, which includes the Backstreet Boys and Chaka Khan. And more big name acts and DJs are set to be unveiled next month.“We’ve always been committed to making the Singapore Grand Prix more than just about the racing,” said Hallett.
“This year, it’ll be a more breathtaking combination of sights, sounds and sensational action.”On the track, the entrance to the pit lane and the exit near Sheares corner (Turn 1) have both been moved further away from the start-finish straight.
“The alterations to the circuit also made it necessary to alter the Sheares corner,” said Singapore GP’s manager of circuit infrastructure, Lawrence Foo. “It will now be easier for drivers to overtake there.“The bumpy stretch along Raffles Boulevard will also be resurfaced to make it easier for drivers to execute passing manoeuvres when they reach Turn 7.
”The apex at Turn 13 before Esplanade Drive will also be made “gentler” for drivers to pick up speed into the next corner, which will be tweaked to allow for more overtaking there.