Singapore F1 Faces Haze Disruption as Indonesian Wildfire Smoke Worsens

Singapore’s Formula 1 weekend is facing disruption as smoke from Indonesian wildfires pushes air quality into unhealthy territory, although the Grand Prix has not been canceled.

SINGAPORE — The Singapore Grand Prix is facing growing disruption risks as haze from Indonesian wildfires continues to blanket the city-state.

Singapore’s air quality deteriorated sharply this week, with the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index reaching unhealthy levels in several parts of the country.

Despite the worsening haze, Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has not canceled the Singapore Grand Prix and racing at the Marina Bay Street Circuit is currently expected to proceed.

Officials have warned, however, that concerts, fan activities and other outdoor entertainment surrounding the race could be restricted if pollution levels worsen.

The haze has been linked to widespread fires in Indonesia, where unusually dry conditions have contributed to one of the country’s more severe wildfire seasons.

Smoke from the fires has spread across parts of Southeast Asia, affecting Singapore and Malaysia.

Organizers have prepared contingency measures including increased air-quality monitoring, medical support and the availability of N95 masks around the circuit.