Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi

When was the track built?

In 2006, plans were announced to develop Yas Island, located just to the east of Abu Dhabi, into a new tourist destination, with a major part of the plans revolving around a Formula One circuit, which was designed by Tilke and completed in 2009.
Since then, it has always hosted a GP, often the season finale, and other major motorsport events; it has been modified in 2021 to improve racing.
It is surrounded by one of the most amazing landscapes of the whole calendar, with the hotel, marina and the Ferrari World immense structure.

When was its first Grand Prix?

In 2009, as a season finale, when Sebastian Vettel completed a Red Bull 1-2 with Mark Webber second, followed by already-crowned champion Jenson Button.
It will have the final spot of the F1 Middle East Continental Series.

What’s the circuit like?

Despite two very long straights, including a 1.2km main one, it has often delivered poor racing due to lack of wheel-to-wheel action, but thanks to the latest modification the situation has improved a lot and overtaking is no longer impossible.
One of the most interesting parts is the run through Turns 10 to12, which forces drivers to brake hard with bags of lateral load still on the car.

Where is it located?

On Yas Island, east of Abu Dhabi, with the airport adjacent to the island; well served connections with all the Emirates also via road. (+ 24°28’26”, + 54°36’16”)