Work on Abu Dhabi circuit completed

The Yas Marina track will host the final round of the Formula 1 season, the weekend of December 12. On this occasion, a lot of work was carried out and has now been completed.

Published on 08/11/2021 à 11:26

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The north hairpin is one of the bends that have been modified. ©DR

Present in the calendar of the Formula 1 Since 2009, the Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi will be the scene of the final round of this F1 season. The organizers announced at the end of June last the carrying out of numerous works on the circuit. They lasted all summer and are now complete, one month before the scheduled date for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The objective is quite clear: the modifications made will allow drivers to cover a faster track, which measures 5,28 kilometers, in order to offer more spectacle and the possibility of overtaking.

Saif Al Noaimi, deputy director of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, was satisfied when unveiling the new track. “This is an incredible moment in the history of the Yas Marina circuit. These are the first changes to the circuit since its construction in 2009. Since then, F1 and other disciplines have evolved in terms of design and performance. We are also progressing to offer the ultimate experience during the events organized on the circuit. »

Modified turns, widened northern hairpin

Initially, the chicane in the first sector disappeared, to make way for a larger straight line which arrives at the northern hairpin, itself widened to become an overtaking zone. The sequence of slow turns previously located in the sector Marsa Corner is replaced by an elevated turn. Finally, the turns present in the hotel sector have been widened to allow drivers not to lose grip.

Still according to Saif Al Noaimi, « The changes will amplify the competitive nature of all sporting events held at the circuit, but we are particularly keen to see how it plays out on the new layout next month when the final round of the Formula 1 season features the Grand Prix of 'Abu Dhabi. » Renowned for not being the most spectacular of Grands Prix, will the modified Abu Dhabi track produce more spectacle? We will have to wait a month to find out, the date of the Grand Prix which will be held in Yas Marina (December 12). On the Abu Dhabi side, we very much hope in any case that the title will not yet be awarded, and that this new track will be the one that will crown the champion.