FORMULA ONE SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX AND THE CITY

Abstract

There is a strong relationship between sport event image and destination image as implied in previous studies , Hence there is great potential for the image of a city to add a unique dimension to the sport tourism industry. This paper aims to identify urban elements of a host destination that boost participant experience of a sport event, contributing to sport event tourism. Research on sport tourism at an academic level is relatively new. Gibson (2004:259) suggests that researchers in this field explain the phenomenon of sport tourism using theories and concepts of other disciplines. Hence, the five key elements of the city are adopted to study how the Formula One Singtel Singapore Grand Prix (F1SSGP) circuit’s urban elements have accentuated Singapore’s city image. While research could not be done during the event, urban analysis of previous F1SSGP participants’ experiences gave rise to five urban elements by which people perceive the event: “access”; “facility”; “telegenic hotspots”; “other events”; and “setting”. The circuit track enhances visitor’s experience of Singapore through F1SSGP, strategically encircling and framing the city. Positive/negative correlation between city image and urban elements of the street circuit is found. Findings provide basis upon which to further urban studies on how outdoor sport events develop tourism the industry and tweak the system to achieve greater visitor experience.