The European swing is over as F1 heads to Asia for the Singapore-Japan double-header. Here’s the key OP facts and views ahead of one of the toughest races on the calendar:

• Due to its proximity to the Equator and the subsequent heat and humidity, drivers can lose up to 3kg of body weight through sweat during the race
• In extreme circumstances, the temperature in the cockpit can reach up to 60 degrees Celsius with 80% humidity
• Timings for all on-track sessions will remain on European time, meaning that on local time Oscar will be having breakfast in the afternoon and dinner in the early hours of the morning
• Singapore was the first night race in F1 history back in 2018 – it is now one of six night races on the 2023 F1 calendar alongside Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi
• The Marina Bay Circuit is set to undergo changes to its layout for 2023 – with the total number of corners reduced from 23 to 19, the total circuit length reduced from 5.063km to 4.928km and the number of laps increased from 61 to 62
• The Singapore Grand Prix has been held 21 times previously with eight SGPs held between 1966 and 1973 although they did not form part of the F1 World Championship
• Comparatively, this is one of the closer grands prix to Australia with around 3763 miles as the crow flies between Singapore and Oscar’s hometown of Melbourne, Victoria

On the heat and humidity…

“It’s set to be one of the most demanding tests of the year in the cockpit from a physical perspective. I’ve done some good training work to get me prepared as best as possible and I’m now looking forward to taking on the challenge.

The extreme humidity makes it a pretty unique task so preparation in the build-up and keeping on top of physical levels during the event are crucial.”

On the track…

“It’s my first time racing around the streets of Singapore so it’s a another new track for me. It’s obviously a street race which adds a layer of focus and concentration.

It’s also very technical with quite a few corners and tight and twisty sections but in the past, it has seemed to throw up overtaking opportunities which is a positive thing and should create some action over the weekend.”

On a special helmet design for Singapore…

“I do have a special helmet design for this race which I’m looking forward to unveiling when I get over there.

It’s a play on my season helmet design which I really like and I’m looking forward to seeing the reaction from the fans.”