Abu Dhabi modifications completed and unveiled

Announced at the start of the summer, the changes to the Yas Marina layout are complete, one month away from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which will conclude the 2021 Formula 1 season. A shorter and faster track now awaits the drivers on 5.28 km, especially with the hope of having created overtaking opportunities on a route that was far from being unanimous in terms of spectacle before. The works took place in three important areas: at the north hairpin, in the south part and around the hotel. The pilots will find out what has changed during the event scheduled for the weekend of December 12.

« It’s an incredible moment in the history of the Yas Marina circuit », said Saif Al Noaimi, deputy director of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management. « These are the first developments made to the circuit since it was built in 2009. Since then, F1 – as well as other disciplines – have evolved in terms of design and performance. We are also making progress to offer the ultimate experience in organized events. on the track. « 

« The changes will amplify the competitive nature of all sporting events held on the circuit, but we are particularly excited to see how it plays out on the new track next month in the Formula 1 season finale with the Grand Prix d ‘Abu Dhabi. « 

The north pin

The modifications to the north hairpin bend are certainly the most significant. The ex-turns 5 and 6 which formed a chicane have been removed and the hairpin has been widened. The single-seaters will be there around 300 km / h with an opportunity to overtake.

Marsa Corner

The small complex located to the south now gives way to an elevated left turn called Marsa Corner, where passage speeds will be in the order of 240 km / h. It replaces a sequence of slow turns which was little appreciated by the pilots.

Hotel sector

Finally, the changes concerning the area around the hotel may appear more minor but are still significant. Each of the turns was opened on the inside with the aim of reducing the loss of grip that was observed there and to mitigate a phenomenon which made it difficult to race in a peloton. The objective in this area is not to create an opportunity to overtake but to keep the cars close to each other.

« After almost a year of working with Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, it’s great to see this design come true », rejoices Mark Hugues, Managing Director of Mrk1 Consulting, a company that contributed to the changes. « The Yas Marina circuit is already one of the most modern and impressive in the world in Formula 1, and these improvements will guarantee the public a rich spectacle in all disciplines, as well as an exhilarating competition. »