Punt on Alonso at 890 proves to be a profitable shot in the "dark"

Formula One / Jamie "The Pacman" Pacheco / 28 September 2008 / Leave a Comment

A speculative punt on Fernando Alonso at odds of [890.0] on Betfair to win the Singapore Grand Prix during the second qualifying session may have seemed like a shot in the dark at the time but it was the Spaniard who ended up winning the first-ever night race in F1 history.

The former World Champion was matched at these mammoth odds (£5 matched) as it became clear that he'd be starting way back on the grid and this proved to indeed be the case when he lined up in 15th position. But a combination of an inspired fuel strategy, fortune in benefiting from a safety car intervention and superb driving allowed the Renault driver to win his first race since Italy last year.

As has so often been the case in recent times, Lewis Hamilton was in strong contention for the win during the race and was matched at just [1.45] to win, but it wasn't to be. But he won't be too upset as a third-placed finish was a lot better than Massa's last and he has now extended his lead for the Championship to seven points with three races to go, which explains why he is just [1.41] to become the 2008 champion; Massa is [3.25].

It was also a good day for Nico Rosberg and his backers after he was backed at [95.0] for a podium finish; he came second.