The organisers of the Singapore Grand Prix insist Sunday’s race is set to go ahead as planned despite a hazardous haze lingering over the region.
The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) is currently recorded at “unhealthy” levels and a number of sporting events in the area were scrapped last weekend.
But, in a statement released on Tuesday, circuit chiefs claim there are no plans in place to amend what has become an iconic race on the Formula One calendar, but did warn that the forecast is changing on an hourly basis.
“Based on the current PSI levels, there are no plans to amend the published racing and entertainment programme,” the statement read.
Tourists in front of the Petronas Towers covered by haze in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Friday. Pic: AP
“The haze situation is highly changeable not only from day to day, but from hour to hour. Therefore, it is currently not possible to reliably predict what the PSI level might be over the race weekend.
“We will continue to work closely with all the relevant government authorities to receive the best possible forecasts when they are available.”
Masks will be available to fans at the track while first aid posts have been placed on standby, organisers also confirmed.
The smoggy air has been caused by farmers in nearby Indonesia burning forests.
Championship leader Lewis Hamilton is bidding for his third win at the Yas Marina Circuit as he closes in on a hat-trick of world titles.
The British driver, a two-time winner in Singapore, holds a 53-point lead over Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg with seven races remaining.