TRACKSIDE FEVER
Podium Lounge at the Singapore F1 Grand Prix
Those who have been watching Formula 1 races live for years know the excitement never ends at the racetrack. Every Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend is a chance to throw lively after-parties attended by both fans and racers. Some of these events get better each year — like Podium Lounge, held annually at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.
This year’s Podium Lounge after-party saw a record sell-out crowd — more than 10,000 guests entertained from the 15th to 17th of September. The party was hosted by Formula 1 legend Giancarlo Fisichella alongside Miss Indonesia 2014 and E! News Asia host Maria Rahajeng.
Podium Lounge kicked off the Formula 1 party weekend with a performance by Fierce Angel and Hed Kandi creator Mark Doyle. This included ‘Fierce Diva’ Soraya Vivian on vocals, Cuban percussionist Pablo Calzado on the drums, and London-based saxophonist Lady V. On the last night, Sunday, Grammy Award winner Macy Gray held a live performance.
As usual, Podium Lounge hosted a fashion show. This year’s show was presented by Karma Resorts and featured Hollywood designer M The Movement. Models walking the runway included Asia’s Next Top Model 2017 winner Maureen Wroblewitz, a Filipina; Khanngoen ‘Khan’ Nuanual from the Thai-American hip-hop group Thaitanium; and the 10 finalists of Miss World Singapore 2017. On Sunday Night, New York Fashion Week designer Mauricio Alpizar held his Singapore debut at the party, and featured Erika Peña Jewelry & Accessories.
Another mainstay feature of Podium Lounge is the charity auction of rare and authenticated F1 memorabilia. On display were rare art, watches, whisky and wine, as well as the Lamborghini Aventador S and WingsOverAsia’s newest Diamond DA40 aircraft. The B28 Whisky Fund previewed a historic portfolio of fine and rare whiskies, and Bulgari launched a new fragrance for women. Another highlight was the presence of world-famous speed painter Armin Flossdorf of F1 Arts and highly acclaimed portrait artist Paul Oz.