The Singapore Grand Prix made history in 2008 as Formula 1’s first-ever night race, setting a new standard for glamour, spectacle, and urban racing. Held on the streets of Marina Bay, the race became an instant hit, combining the buzz of city nightlife with the drama of tight, unforgiving racing.

• It was part of F1’s broader push into Asia in the late 2000s

• Introduced under Bernie Ecclestone’s commercial leadership

• Positioned as Asia’s answer to Monaco, but with a modern, neon-lit edge

The inaugural race also sparked major controversy, known as “Crashgate”, where Renault orchestrated a deliberate crash to manipulate race results — a scandal that had long-term implications for the sport’s ethics.