Mat Coch writes:It's hot, it's humid and if you give it a minute it'll probably rain. Yes, it's the Singapore Grand Prix and the twisting streets of the Marina Bay circuit, a vibrant and lively locale which never seems to slow down, perhaps a night race fits just nicely.

The circuit is the toughest of the year for drivers, according to Pitpass' own Christian Klien. Even the straights, most of which have the odd kink or two, are bumpy. The temperature and humidity combined with the relentless nature of a bumpy street circuit allow no time for relaxation in a race that will run close to its two-hour time limit during which drivers can't relax for a second.

Reports on local television have suggested race day is already close to a sell-out, while most of the city's hotels are approaching capacity. Of course there is plenty for race goers to do with pop concerts each evening and a handful of supporting classes on track before then.

Formula One won't head out until tomorrow afternoon, when temperatures are at their highest and probably far hotter than they'll be during the race. Another session later in the evening will give a more representative indication of what conditions in the race will be like.

During the race the safety car is statistically guaranteed, having been a feature of every Singapore Grand Prix to date. It means Sunday's race will be governed by two factors; the number of laps and the two-hour time limit. Last year's event was two laps short because of the two-hour rule, while previous years have finished just in the nick of time.

It adds just another variable to a race which is already high on drama; the circuit, the backdrop, the lights, the weather, the time. It's all part of the Singapore Grand Prix, and is why, for many, it is one of the best events on the Formula One calendar.

As previously reported, the famous Singapore Sling is no more, replaced with a simple left hander in an effort to make what drivers believed to be the most dangerous corner on the circuit just a little safer.

A left-right-left combination of turns the chicane fast became a highlight of the Marina Bay circuit as cars bounced their way over the high kerbs. With the Courthouse in the background it created some iconic images, especially as drivers got it wrong, as many did.

Previously known as turns 10a, 10b and 10c the corner, now a simple left hander, will simply be known as Turn 10.

Approached at in excess of 150 mph (240kph) the Singapore Sling was designed to slow cars down in an area of the circuit where there was no run-off.

It’s one of a number of small changes to the circuit, which has also been resurfaced in parts while some kerbing around the circuit has also been changed.

Check out our Thursday gallery, here.