It's All About the $
Like most sporting events these days, but even more so, F1 is a giant advertising and branding event. Singapore only began hosting it in 2008 but it's quickly become the crown jewel of the circuit, F1's only night race. It seemed like the entire global jet set was in town for the weekend - I waited longer at immigration and customs than I ever have. Nobody actually watches the race, which is quite boring. They're too busy drinking, chasing model-babes and eating the free food paid for by the sponsors. I was more than happy to take a free ticket from Jean's friend Tracy, whose Dad is the chairman of the race.
The ticket granted us access to walk around the track, eat and drink for free in the "Paddock Club, which was right across from pit row as well as hang out on the roof deck. After a few minutes of watching I quickly jammed in the free earplugs. Like golf, it's much better on television. Being stuck in one place while the cars zoom by you with no reference point to who was leading was a dud.
The champagne was flowing in the private lounge, which was air-conditioned and shielded us from the deafening rattle of the cars as they rocketed past. The women were dolled up of course and even I was nice enough to put on some sneakers instead of my usual flip-flops.
In the newspaper this week, there were opinion pieces for and against re-upping the F1 contract when it expires next year. Those in favor through it brought in a lot of revenue, tourists and raised the profile of the city. Those against were upset that average Singaporeans couldn't afford the ticket and only large multinational companies could afford the advertising. I can see both sides of the argument. It wasn't my cup of tea but it brought a bit of excitement, something Singapore can use from time to time.
Some video, in case you're interested:
No comments:
Post a Comment