SINGAPORE - Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas have welcomed the return of the challenge of racing in Singapore.

"It's good to be back," said Bottas, 28, on Thursday (Sept 14). "It's always nice to come here... It's challenging and I like the fact that we race in the evening. It's also physically demanding. I like a guy who likes a challenge, that's why I like it."

The Mercedes drivers were speaking to guests and the media at the private meet-and-greet session at The Ritz Carlton Millenia Singapore.

It was a glamorous event which saw Hamilton arrive at the poolside in style, in the new Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Saloon. Models were also showcasing the new BOSS Fall/Winter 2017 Collection.

With cocktails and soft drinks served, about 400 guests enjoyed an afternoon of interaction with the drivers.

Hamilton was also on hand to discuss the challenging Marina Bay street circuit and his chances this weekend.

Said the two-time winner here: "It's been a good race for me for many years, it's good to be here... It's a long track so there's a lot of corners to accommodate in your set-up. We've worked on track to understand that, so hopefully we can start on the better foot this weekend.

"Providing we put together what we've been working on - understanding the set-up - if I drive the way I've been driving, we should be in a good place."

The 32-year-old enters Sunday's race with the championship lead (238 points), ahead of Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel (235 points) and Bottas (197 points).