The Yas Marina Circuit, located on Yas Island about half an hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi, has been a part of the Formula 1 calendar since 2009. In the Netherlands, it is particularly known as the place where Max Verstappen became the Formula 1 World Champion for the first time in 2021 after a sensational race. Verstappen also won the race in 2020, 2022, and 2023.
The very first test lap on the track was done by Bruno Senna. ‘Abu Dhabi’ marked the first day-night race (start in daylight, finish under artificial light) in Formula 1. The Grand Prix is known as the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Key Facts about the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- Opening: 2009
- First F1 race: 2009
- Location: Abu Dhabi
- Length: 5.281 km
- Number of turns: 16
- Most victories: Lewis Hamilton (5)
- Lap record: Max Verstappen (1.26,103 in 2021)
Recent Winners of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- 2023: Max Verstappen
- 2022: Max Verstappen
- 2021: Max Verstappen
- 2020: Max Verstappen
- 2019: Lewis Hamilton
- 2018: Lewis Hamilton
The circuit, designed by German Hermann Tilke, is considered the most expensive circuit ever and is estimated to have cost a staggering 900 million euros, including the construction of the artificial island. The costs were initially estimated at ‘only’ 225 million euros.
Yas Marina Circuit’s Location and Features
The circuit has sixteen turns. In the Netherlands, turn 5 is especially known for the successful overtaking maneuver that Max Verstappen executed on Lewis Hamilton on December 12, 2021, in the very last lap of the 2021 race. This led to Max Verstappen becoming the World Champion for the first time in his career. Verstappen also won the races in 2020, 2022, and 2023 representing Red Bull Racing.
The circuit is located at the marina and runs past the famous Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi, designed by renowned New York architects Hani Rashid and Lise Anne Couture. The striking lighting concept of the hotel was provided by Dutch lighting technician Rogier van der Heide.
Kimi Räikkönen’s Take on the Track: “The first turns are okay, but the rest is rubbish”
The pit lane exit, which features a tunnel under the track, has been a point of contention for many drivers due to safety concerns. Moreover, many drivers have criticized the track layout for its limited overtaking opportunities. “The first turns are okay, but the rest is rubbish,” was the blunt assessment of Finnish driver Kimi Räikkönen. In response to ongoing criticism, several modifications were made to the track in 2021.
The Grand Prix has traditionally been the final race of the season since 2009. The current contract extends until 2030. The race in 2024 will take place on Sunday, December 8, at 2:00 PM Dutch time and 5:00 PM local time.
