Heidfeld wary of rain threat at Singapore

As teams make their final preparations for the trip to the Asian city state, both Heidfeld and Kubica are happy about the work that has been done for the event - even if no one is sure how much expected rain will impact on proceedings.

Heidfeld said: "Everyone is really looking forward to the Singapore Grand Prix. Firstly because it's a new track, secondly because it's a street circuit and thirdly, of course, because we'll be driving at night.

"The floodlights should ensure it is actually as bright as during the day, but nobody has yet experienced how these light conditions will feel at Formula One speeds.

"I would have welcomed the chance to test on the track, especially in the rain. Rain combined with the artificial light is the great unknown for me with this race. The climate should be similar to that in nearby Kuala Lumpur, and - from experience - it rains frequently there, especially in the early evening."

Kubica added: "I am looking forward to Singapore, as the Grand Prix will be the second new race of the season. Racing on new tracks is always interesting - I enjoy it very much and I am very excited. Beyond that, I am extremely happy to race on another street circuit as I am a big fan of street circuits.

"Lots of people consider it interesting that the race will start at night. But from a driver's perspective I think it does not make a big difference whether we race in the daylight or at night.

"There are still some question-marks regarding weather conditions and - related to the chance of rain - the light situation. I am sure the FIA have done everything to make it a safe race."

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen believes that the Singapore Grand Prix could eclipse Monaco as the best event of the year.

"I'm expecting this premiere in Singapore to be the highlight of the season," he said. "We had a look around the circuit at a meeting of team managers in Singapore and were given a demonstration of the lighting system. We were left very much with the impression that, although the race would be at night, it would actually be as bright as day.

"The only question remaining is whether the light will reflect from the track surface if it rains. That's something we'll only find out if we get a wet race."