Yas Marina Circuit
| First Grand Prix | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Circuit length | 5.554 km |
| Number of laps | 55 |
| Race distance | 305.355 km |
| Lap record | 1:39.283 – Hamilton (2019) |
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 centring around a 5.5km race track. The diggers rolled into what would become the Yas Marina Circuit in May 2007, with the project completed by October 2009.
When was its first Grand Prix?
In 2009. The track debuted as that year’s Formula 1 season finale, with Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel winning from team mate Mark Webber and the already-crowned 2009 champion Jenson Button. Vettel would go on to secure his first title in Abu Dhabi a year later, amid much crying.
What’s the circuit like?
The Hermann Tilke-designed track is dominated by its 1.2km straight between Turns 7 and 8 – which, with slow-speed corners marking its beginning and end, makes it a honeypot for overtaking moves. Other highlights include the tricky run through Turns 15 and 16 into 17, which forces the drivers to brake hard with bags of lateral load still on the car.
Did you know?
Abu Dhabi is the world’s richest city. The average net worth of the 420,000 permanent citizens is US$17 million.
Transport
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Abu Dhabi International Airport has recently undergone a US$6.8 billion redevelopment. It has many connections around the world and Etihad Airways – the national carrier and title sponsor of the Grand Prix – recently added its 50th international destination.
The airport lies adjacent to Yas Island, making the track easily accessible by taxi. It’s a 30-minute drive to Abu Dhabi city and while taxis are inexpensive, all the major hire car companies can be found in the arrivals terminal. A third option for getting around is a new and heavily subsidised bus service.
Enthusiasts only
There’s plenty to see at Yas Marina Circuit, aside from watching Formula 1 cars. There’s drag racing and an off-road driving centre, and you can test your own skills at a state-of-the-art kart centre. If you think your technique needs some work, there’s even a driving school for you to attend.
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