SINGAPORE: More Formula One (F1) drivers are eager to try the proposed Singapore street circuit.

Williams drivers Alex Wurz and Narain Karthikeyan feel that the proposed night race would be a good addition to the sport.

But legendary driver Sir Jackie Stewart said much work needs to be done, and this includes a simulation that costs about US$30 million to ensure the track is safe.

The drivers are in Singapore before heading to the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang this weekend.

The two Williams drivers may be pros but driving in Singapore was not a breeze.

They lost out to a rookie – Singaporean Alvin Koh - who clocked the fastest time of 1:13:864 on an F1 simulator.

He won a trip to Europe to compete in a real F1 car with other winners.

And speaking of the real deal, the two Williams drivers cannot wait for the Singapore F1 race to start.

Mr Wurz said: "I don't see any problem in night racing - other racing categories have done it. I think the organisers will do a great job in making sure the electricity has a back-up. I think it just raises the show and that is perfect for all of us so I am actually looking forward to it."

With sparks flying, the night race will literally be more colourful, according to another F1 pro, Mr Karthikeyan.

The Indian national, who became his country's first F1 driver, is William's current test driver.

He, too, had a spin on the Singapore circuit.

Mr Karthikeyan said: "For me, it is quite challenging. Formula One is a sport but it's also a spectacle and for the spectators, it is going to be much more fun."

For veteran Sir Jackie Stewart, racing under the stars adds a new dimension to the sport.

The 67-year-old is a three-time former world champ, and he cautions that extensive R&D needs to be done.

This includes a simulation on the possible scenarios and dangers.

He said: "That would probably have to be done on another track, and clearly you couldn't do it here. And it must be very expensive, I think it will cost US$20 to US$30 million to be able to do it really correctly and if it were a permanent facility, it could justify that. But for a temporary facility, it may be difficult to justify financially."

Stewart, who is dyslexic, also made time to visit the Dyslexia Association of Singapore where the Scotsman, though retired from the sport, was still a hit with fans.


- CNA/so