Haze Threatens Singapore F1 Grand Prix
The threat of haze is once again looming over outdoor events in Singapore, including the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2026. Organisers are stepping up preparedness as air quality could potentially deteriorate due to forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan.
The Meteorological Service Singapore stated that the risk of transboundary haze could increase if forest fires in Indonesia worsen, especially as dry weather conditions are expected to persist over the coming days.
Currently, Singapore’s Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) is in the moderate range of 51-100, but air quality enters the unhealthy category if the PSI exceeds 101.
Singapore GP organisers said haze scenarios have been incorporated into the event’s contingency plans.
“If the haze poses issues related to visibility, public health, or operations, Singapore GP will coordinate closely with relevant agencies before making a joint decision regarding the event,” a Singapore GP spokesperson said, as quoted by Channel News Asia on Sunday (23/8/2026).
This is not the first time the risk has disrupted the Singapore F1 event. In September 2019, air quality deteriorated due to forest fires in Indonesia, but around 268,000 spectators still attended the race, with organisers deploying first aid personnel and providing N95 masks.
The Singapore government’s Haze Task Force has also prepared a tiered response based on 24-hour PSI readings and hourly PM2.5 levels.
“Relevant member agencies will work closely with Singapore GP to assess the situation before making a joint decision regarding the event,” the task force said.
Precautionary measures include providing updates on haze conditions to spectators and workers at the circuit area, as well as providing medical assistance and N95 masks if needed. The task force, led by the National Environment Agency (NEA), also reviewed and updated each agency’s response plans in April.
Similar vigilance is being undertaken by organisers of other outdoor events. Sentosa Development Corporation said operations and event formats can be adjusted based on air quality, while organisers of the Singapore Night Festival 2026, running from 21 August to 5 September, said programmes can be relocated, adjusted, or cancelled if conditions worsen.
Meanwhile, the government and businesses are also ensuring mask availability. Watsons Singapore and FairPrice Group said they have sufficient N95 stock, while other retailers such as Cold Storage and Sheng Siong continue to monitor demand and will adjust supplies if there is a surge in need due to worsening haze.