An interview with Michael Roche
The Singapore Grand Prix has marked its tread on the legendary Formula One circuit since its debut in 2008, becoming one of the most beloved tracks in the calendar among fans and drivers alike as F1’s
only night-race. Yet in an interview with Autosport, Singapore Grand Prix’s executive director Michael Roche reveals that officials are hoping to forge an even greater legacy for the Marina Bay Street Circuit, and are striving to make it a “must-have,” for
every season.
“I want to see this race institutionalised – so that we are a Monaco, and an absolute must for Formula One,” asserts Roche. “We got very flattered in recent years when people used terms like ‘a Jewel in
the Crown’ or the ‘Monaco of the East’ and things like that – but you cannot be complacent about it. You are only as good as yesterday gave you.”
When questioned about the challenges Grands Prix face on the road to becoming a treasured classic, Roche explains, “Where events lack sometimes is that they don't put all the pieces together. It is not
just about the cars, it is not just about having a great hospitality, it is not just about the entertainment, it is not just about access – but about looking at all those aspects put together."
He adds, “"The pressure is on us all – whether it comes from our boss, who is unrelenting, or from the Singapore government or the whole mindset of this event. The bar was already set so high when we took
it on. But there was no possibility of failure, there was no possibility to be second best.”
Officials have been vigilant about keeping the track up to standard this month by repairing the surface, levelling the pit lane, re-engineering turns, and splashing on a fresh coat of paint to liven up
the already festive track. Given that the event is increasing in popularity at a steady growth, Roche is justified in harbouring lofty aspirations for the star-light circuit.
“To get to 10 years, 20 years or 30 years down the line and Singapore is the pinnacle, or the race of the season, that would be magnificent,” he dreams. “But the world changes so fast. We might be looking
at a race in Red Square in Moscow, we might be looking at a race in Times Square – and who knew the races would go to the Middle East? It is quite incredible.”
Roche is adamant that Singapore will carve out its own identity – a feat which it is already doing exceptionally well. “We are not trying to match Monaco,” he insisted. “We want to be ourselves. We want
to be unique, yes. We want to be heralded as the best we can be, but in our own way.”
In light of some of the financial difficulties which various Grands Prix have faced over the years, Roche reassures critics that the event can take care of itself. “The economic benefit of this race was
undoubted, even from the amount of tickets we sell. Then there are the hotels, the restaurants and bars that are still busy at 5am in the morning. Then there are the shops. Prada and Dolce & Gabbana, the party type items, had nothing left on the shelves, they
were wiped out. The GST [Government Sales Tax] claims on Monday at the airport were unbelievable. So that is all fantastic.”
As for Singapore’s future prospects, Roche confirms that there is a possibility for further modification to the circuit. “It is still in discussion. There is nothing inked or anything like that – but that
is another part of the whole puzzle. Will it be more interesting for the spectator? Will it be a better race because of it? And that will always be an ongoing discussion.”
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