Yas Marina announces track changes to add excitement to F1 season finale
The finale of the 2021 Formula 1 season will take place at a newly reconfigured Yas Marina Circuit, in an effort to improve overtaking and the quality of races at the venue.
Changes to the Yas Marina Circuit. (Yas Marina Circuit)
The circuit, which opened in 2009, will undergo changes in three sections, designed to aid overtaking at a track often criticised for a lack of exciting racing.
The chicane will be removed and replaced with a wider hairpin at Turn 7, a layout which existed previously but went unused by the Formula 1 grid due to safety concerns.
A section of four sharp corners at Turns 11-14 will be replaced by a long banked turn.
The section of four sharp corners near the Marina will be reprofiled to allow for faster racing.
Track operators say the changes to Turn 17 will allow more overtaking, and the changes to Turn 20 will allow cars to follow closer together as they complete the lap.
The announcement echoes changes to the Albert Park circuit, which will also make their debut during the 2021 season.
Acting CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, Saif Al Noaimi, said: “As a venue, we are continually identifying ways in which we can evolve, keep our product offerings fresh and retain the support of our loyal fanbase."
“This programme, which represents a hugely important chapter in the Yas Marina Circuit story, will involve work being carried out in three separate sections of the track, increasing the opportunity for drivers to overtake and amplifying the competitive nature of all motorsport events held at the venue.
“Work will take place over the summer, with completion expected well in advance of this year’s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and we look forward to showcasing our new-look track to motorsport fans both locally and internationally in the coming months.”
Managing Director, Motorsports at Formula 1, Ross Brawn, said “As host of the Formula 1 season-finale since 2009, Yas Marina Circuit has established itself as one of the most popular venues for motorsport fans around the world to attend."
"We are fully supportive of the decision to make improvements to the track, with the aim of enhancing the overall motorsport experience across the board, including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, for both competitors and spectators.
"Given its position as the final race in the Formula 1 season, it is always a special date on the calendar, and with this year’s event set to be the first on the new-look track and the last race before we enter the new era of F1 in 2022, there is added incentive to look forward to the spectacle.”
