Formula 1

• Track insights

  The sight of a McLaren winding its way around the marina and under a hotel during sunset in Abu Dhabi is one of F1’s most stunning. As well as being visually appealing, the fact the race takes place at sunset also makes for a unique challenge for the team and drivers. As the sun goes down, the temperature drops, and the track cools, which impacts grips and balance and makes understeer much more likely.

  From a racing point of view, the circuit’s defining feature and its greatest overtaking opportunity is its 1.2km straight, which is sandwiched between slow-speed corners. There are several slow corners in the first sector of the track, which helps to bunch up the pack and promotes close racing.

  The design of the Yas Marina Circuit has changed in recent years, with remodelling work done ahead of the race in 2021 to create more overtaking opportunities. The lap was shortened to 5.281km, and five corners were removed, including the chicane and Turns 11 to 14, while several other corners were widened.

• What's it like on Abu Dhabi?

  Located on an island in the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi is a modern city full of heritage and history. In this sense, Abu Dhabi offers the best of both worlds. It’s the capital of the United Arab Emirates and offers a luxurious and beautiful location for a grand prix, lined with white sandy beaches.

  The city’s defining feature is undoubtedly the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece featuring more than 1,000 columns, 82 domes, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. If you only have time to do one thing whilst you’re in Abu Dhabi, then you’ll want to make it this. But if you’re lucky enough to have more spare time, then plenty more awaits.

  If you’re hungry for more culture, then the Louvre Abu Dhabi should be next on your list, or if you’re actually hungry, then Abu Dhabi is full of amazing restaurants and interesting food, from Sola Café and Restaurant’s avocado waffle to Punjab Highway’s chilli gobhi. After eating, you’ll probably want something a little more relaxing, in which case we’d recommend a casual stroll along the Corniche, a five-mile stretch of beaches, artwork and gardens.

• Stat pack

  • Abu Dhabi has hosted a grand prix since 2009
  • The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was the first F1 race to take place at sunset
  • The Yas Marina Circuit has six possible layouts
  • Drivers race at full power for 69% of the lap
  • Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button both finished on the podium in our second Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
  • Hamilton won our first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2011
  • Hamilton has scored both of our poles in Abu Dhabi, Qualifying first in 2009 and 2012