Singapore is grappling with unhealthy air pollution as thick haze from extensive wildfires in Indonesia drifts over the city-state ahead of the upcoming Formula One night race. The annual event, which highlights Singapore’s vibrant illuminated skyline, faces an unusual challenge this year due to smoke caused by a "super" El Niño that has intensified fire activity across parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Since June, rainfall in the region has been approximately 80% below average, creating dry conditions that have fueled the worst fire season in over a decade, according to Wang Jingyu, an assistant professor at Singapore’s National Institute of Education at Nanyang Technological University. The resulting haze has pushed Singapore into some of the world’s highest pollution levels, with the city’s National Environment Agency classifying air quality as "unhealthy" on Tuesday.

Despite these concerns, race organizers and the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) have indicated that the smoky conditions are not expected to interrupt the race schedule, which follows the eventful Grand Prix in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. The FIA has contingency plans should the haze worsen, including possible restrictions on outdoor entertainment activities, but these measures are unlikely to affect the racing paddock itself. Organizers have also pledged to provide N95 masks at the venue as needed and will continue to coordinate with authorities on any health or operational measures during the race weekend.

The haze adds a significant challenge for drivers competing at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, known for its high humidity and complex, twisting layout. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to poor air quality could impair drivers’ cognitive functions. Chris Carlsten, a medicine professor at the University of British Columbia who studies the physiological impacts of air pollution, referenced research showing that exposure to high pollution levels can slow reaction times to a degree similar to consuming alcohol.

Environmental physiologist Chris Tyler, who has worked with Formula One drivers such as Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz, noted that pre-race outdoor training and acclimatization, common practices for drivers preparing for Singapore’s heat, may be compromised by the haze. Similar advisories were given to Lewis Hamilton ahead of the 2019 Singapore Grand Prix, when hazy conditions were last recorded.

While the drivers may be able to mitigate some health risks by wearing masks when not on track, concerns remain for the hundreds of thousands of spectators expected to attend the race weekend. Extended exposure to the polluted air could cause mild symptoms such as coughing and sore throats in healthy individuals, but vulnerable populations—including the elderly, pregnant women, and children—face higher risks. The haze could aggravate pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis, experts say.

Forecasts suggest that thundery showers on Friday and Saturday may help alleviate some of the smoky conditions in Singapore. In the meantime, Formula One teams appear confident, with one newcomer, Audi, stating their drivers are prepared to compete under varying air quality conditions. The FIA has released statements affirming that visibility on the circuit remains unaffected and that there is no expected risk to the event’s conduct under current conditions.