Too hot to handle
Demand for the inaugural Singapore Grand Prix tickets was so high that the distribution system could not cope.
Customers trying to buy tickets, which were available online, through call centres and at booths, experienced delays due to higher than anticipated volume of system traffic both locally and internationally.
The OmniTicket Network, which is in charge of sales, said it had designed a "unique system" to manage high demand for tickets but it still struggled to cope.
"Due to the unexpected number of simultaneous requests, the response time of the reservation system got compromised and, for a short time, even stopped responding," said chief executive Paolo Moro.
"We realise that Formula One fans are eager to be able to attend this unique event. Therefore we can confirm that we are doing everything possible to further increase the power of the system."
General three-day passes are priced from 168 to 1,388 Singapore dollars (118 to 979 US), with each customer allowed to buy a maximum of eight tickets. At the top end, corporate tickets for the Paddock Club are 7,500 dollars (5,293 US).
The Grand Prix's staging at night is expected to boost global TV ratings for an already hugely popular sport. It is estimated that it will generate about 100 million dollars (68.5 million US) a year in incremental tourism receipts for an island nation that has ambitions of becoming 'a vibrant, global city.'
Credits: Jarvis
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