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'A highlight in every sense of the word'-Theissen
By BMW Sauber F1 Team September 29 2008
The Singapore GP is over and BMW Sauber collected 3 extra points in what was a very turbulent race. In this edition of Track Talk, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen reviews the first night race in Formula One history, and is full of praise for the organisation in Singapore.
Dear motor racing enthusiasts,

Another spectacular chapter was added to Formula One history in Singapore on Sunday. The 800th Grand Prix in the history of the sport was also the first night race for motorsport's elite class. This premiere was a dazzling success. Compliments to all those involved. It is incredible what the organisers in Singapore achieved over the weekend. The images broadcast around the world were simply fantastic.

The atmosphere in this mega city is absolutely spectacular. You could sense the enthusiasm ignited by Formula One in Singapore throughout the entire race weekend. Thousands of spectators were spellbound as they followed the action around the brightly lit strip of concrete in the heart of the metropolis. For me, the many unusual aspects of this race make it the race calendar's genuine highlight - in every sense of the word.

The circuit in the heart of the city state is extraordinary: the cars race under a stand packed full with spectators, then head alongside a park and under motorways. At one point the cars are practically touching each other, before turning off in opposite directions. The tight circuit is similar to Monaco, and has a similarly low number of overtaking opportunities.

Despite this, the first safety-car phase ensured that the first night Grand Prix was a turbulent one. Unfortunately the pit lane regulation completely ruined Robert's race, while Nick was just able to stay out until the pit lane was reopened. It is a real shame for Robert, as he looked like picking up more important points in the overall standings. Nick made up three places to finish sixth and gain a further three points. This means we have still scored points in every race in 2008.

Not everything went entirely to plan for our closest rivals. Besides Nick, only one of the top six in the Drivers' Championship finished in the points: Lewis Hamilton. As a result, very little separates the top positions in both the Drivers' Championship and Manufacturers' Championship. The final three races in Japan, China and Brazil promise to be very exciting.

Sincerely,
Mario Theissen

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