In 2010 the world of motorsport will return to Formula One's newest destination. The second Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place from November 12-14th at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
About the Yas Marina Circuit
Inspired by the culture and values of Abu Dhabi combined with cutting-edge innovation and luxury features, the Yas Marina Circuit is the perfect combination of style and function. The Formula 1™ track is 5.55 km long. This track can be split in to smaller tracks at 3.1 km and 2.4 km each which can operate simultaneously where desired.
Approximately 50,000 spectators can view the action on the circuit from the comfort of permanent, covered grandstands and VIP facilities. Yas Marina Circuit is the only motorsports venue in the world where all of the grandstands are covered.
David Coulthard on the Yas Marina Circuit
David Coulthard is one of the few men who has had the opportunity to drive the new Yas Marina circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi GP, describing it as a "two-stage" track.
"Having had the opportunity to drive the circuit, what struck me is that it's a two-stage track; the first half of the lap until corner nine is typical of the new type of track," he said.
"There's the fast section at the beginning from Turn One to the Turn Four tight hairpin with the grandstand literally overhead, giving great viewing for the spectators.
"The 1.2 kilometre back straight should give an opportunity for some slipstreaming and overtaking and then the back section of the circuit has a real street circuit feel to it, where you come along the section that takes you to the hotel and then passes underneath it, via a series of 90 degree right-handers and left-handers before opening out to the end of the lap and a medium speed corner on to the start-finish straight.
"The pit lane entry is very challenging, as is the exit, which is actually in a tunnel under the circuit and is going to make it particularly challenging for the drivers coming in and out of pit stops.
"There are great facilities and air-conditioned garages which will make working conditions in the heat a little bit easier and also having an evening race will obviously take some of the heat out of what can be a very hot venue."
"I think the twilight aspect of the race will be more of a visual treat for the spectators and the TV audience, but I think for the drivers it will be absolutely fine, as there is enough overhead lighting to make it blend seamlessly from day into night, no problem."
See more photos on our Facebook page
Related Articles
McLaren Previews the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park
