Even though they had issues with a grid penalty for Nick Heidfeld and pit stop penalties for Robert Kubica, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen is full of praise for the organisation of the first ever night race in Singapore last weekend. Speaking to the team’s official website, Theissen reviewed the historical event and gave it his full seal of approval….

“Another spectacular chapter was added to Formula One history in Singapore on Sunday,” he said. “The 800th Grand Prix in the history of the sport was also the first night race for motorsport's elite class. This premiere was a dazzling success. Compliments to all those involved. It is incredible what the organisers in Singapore achieved over the weekend. The images broadcast around the world were simply fantastic.”

“The atmosphere in this mega city is absolutely spectacular. You could sense the enthusiasm ignited by Formula One in Singapore throughout the entire race weekend. Thousands of spectators were spellbound as they followed the action around the brightly lit strip of concrete in the heart of the metropolis. For me, the many unusual aspects of this race make it the race calendar's genuine highlight - in every sense of the word.”

“The circuit in the heart of the city state is extraordinary: the cars race under a stand packed full with spectators, then head alongside a park and under motorways. At one point the cars are practically touching each other, before turning off in opposite directions. The tight circuit is similar to Monaco, and has a similarly low number of overtaking opportunities.”

But, instead of the procession that was expected, the first safety-car phase ensured that the first night Grand Prix was a turbulent one. Unfortunately the pit lane regulation completely ruined Robert' Kubica’s race…

“It is a real shame for Robert, as he looked like picking up more important points in the overall standings,” he added.

However, teammate Nick Heidfeld made up three places to finish sixth and gain a further three points and that means that the Hinwil based squad continue their points finishing record of securing points in every race this season.