There are currently 6 night races on the Formula 1 calendar. The night races are an iconic part of the F1 season. Without changing the race layout or semantics of the weekend, making the race happen at night brings a new energy and setting to a regular race. Driving at night time, even on a lit track, adds an edge to the driver’s strategies and mindset.
The six-night races take place in Bahrain, Saudia Arabia, Singapore, Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and will remain on the F1 calendar for the 2025 season with Las Vegas as a Saturday night race. The other five will remain as Sunday races. But why do they exist?
Why does F1 host races at night?
Most night races are held in countries with warmer temperatures. The hotter climates make the races less sustainable for the drivers’ bodies. The heat coming off the track and cockpit makes it hotter inside the car than it is atmospherically. Not only do the race organisers consider the drivers, but they also have to think about the fans.
Donuts on the Las Vegas Strip 🍩
Our 2022 Las Vegas launch party went off in true Vegas fashion 😎#F1 #LasVegasGP pic.twitter.com/Ss3im99XVV
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 17, 2024
In addition to the adrenaline felt by both the fans and drivers, night races give fans an extra reason to attend the races. Night races are more appealing to the local fans as the heat is more manageable and thus enjoyable. In most of the six countries, the time zones are more suitable for the global audience. Making the race happen at night also boosts viewership because it is easier for fans to watch globally.
Where was the first-ever night race?
The first-ever Formula 1 night race was held in Singapore. The 2008 Singapore Grand Prix introduced night races to the calendar and has remained ever since. Held against the stunning skyline of Marina Bay, the track shines brighter under the stars. The track features lights that are adaptable to the track to maximize the race’s aesthetic.
Get familiar with the Marina Bay Street Circuit and it’s statistics ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix!#F1 #SingaporeGP pic.twitter.com/QCBu22gXWd
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) September 18, 2024
As mentioned earlier, night races are often held in hotter climate areas. The Singapore GP is no different. Marina Bay is already a hard race for the drivers with 23 turns and a bumpy track. The timing of the race allows the track to cool down and the temperatures to drop.
Do you think we should have more night races? What do you think about them?
