As another breakneck year in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship® draws to a close, there’s still plenty of juice left in the world’s leading motorsport series’ tank as it returns to the smooth asphalt of Yas Marina Circuit – an uber-luxurious venue that bears all the hallmarks of F1’s® typically glamourous traditions.
Thankfully, more fans will experience this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix action after organisers increased the diverse ticket options to 17 different products for every possible budget.
All-new are the single-day, standing-only passes for Abu Dhabi Hill, which rises impressively out of the circuit’s centre, while the three-day Paddock Club pass – including limited F&B packages and unrivalled views across the ultra-modern circuit, the start- finish line and the Pit Lane – now offers even more for super-premium guests.
With Yas Marina now boasting even more world-class F&B options for Grand Prix revellers, an amazing line-up of post-race concerts is also on the cards, including a slew of Arabic pop stars performing on Thursday October – another Abu Dhabi first.
It’s all part of making the annual spectacle even more dazzling for the event’s local, regional and international guests. On that note, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix continues to attract an ever-growing global fan-base. After non-UAE-based ticket-buyers rose from 28 percent in 2011 to 35 percent in 2012, organisers are confident of hitting this year’s stretched ‘overseas attendance’ target of 42 percent.
And so they should be. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is synonymous with action, drama, glamour, speed and world-class off-track entertainment. In short, the emirate’s flagship sporting event continues to get bigger and better.
Last but certainly not least, there’s the small matter of the actual race. Having set a new standard for jaw-dropping awesomeness last year, the 2013 installment is much more than a title procession for Red Bull’s all-conquering German, Sebastian Vettel. All the drivers are fighting hard and battling for points to set themselves up for next year’s World Championship. Let battle commence!
Celeb spotting!
As well as the world famous stars slaloming around the track and belting out hits at du Arena, keep your eyes peeled for a host of other celebrities at Yas Marina Circuit. We hear Sir Chris Hoy, the Great Britain two-wheeling Olympian hero, is coming to see what all the four-wheel fuss is about. And if you haven’t done so already, get your tickets for Amber Lounge – the official F1® after-party, which runs out on Friday 1 and Sunday 3 November. It’s a celeb-spotting paradise!Yas Marina Circuit doesn’t just offer the chance to watch motorsport, it also provides the opportunity to tackle the track from behind the wheel. From souped-up sportscars to scintillating single-seaters, budding racing drivers are spoilt for choice. There are even packages for those who’d like to experience the track as a passenger alongside a professional racing driver, while qualified instructors are also on hand to offer lessons. With three separate circuit layouts to sample, and packages starting from just Dhs110, why not sign up for one of the experiences today?
Take a closer look at Yas Marina Circuit here.
Find out more about the ‘Yas Experiences’ here.
Yas Marina Circuit
Take a closer look at the stunning home of F1™ in Abu Dhabi
Since joining the FIA Formula 1® World Championship calendar in 2009, Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit has become one of the most recognisable in a sport of spectacular venues. With Arabian tent-inspired covered grandstands, a five-star hotel that straddles the circuit and even a place to moor your yacht, Yas Marina Circuit sets the bar for F1® facilities. It also provides thrilling on-circuit action.
Running at a length of 5.5km (3.4 miles) in an anti-clockwise direction, the full track takes in 21 turns (12 left and nine right). Shorter configurations are also available, including 3.25km (1.9 miles) and 2.36km (1.46 miles) options. Unlike many other circuits around the world, the two shorter configurations can be run independently of each other, which opens up the possibility of simultaneous events.
During the showpiece F1® race, Yas Marina Circuit offers stunning views from a variety of vantage points, including the water. With 175 pontoon spots – all with track views – it’s possible to dock a 100-metre-long super yacht next to the circuit. Another incredible place to watch the action can be found at the top of the VIP suite known as Sun Tower. This 60-metre-high building provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of the action.
Last year’s 2012 Formula 1® Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was won by Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn will be hoping to repeat the trick this year, but will face tough competition from reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel, who set the lap record around the circuit in 2009 with a time of 1:40.279 – that’s an average speed of 198kmph.
If you fancy giving the pros a run for their money, then Yas Marina Circuit offers the chance to take to the track in a variety of vehicles that are sure to get the pulse racing. Driver and passenger options are available for every budget.
Find out more about the ‘Yas Experiences’ here.
Yas Experiences
Get behind the wheel to see Yas Marina Circuit through the eyes of a racing driver
Aston Martin Gt4: Driver Experience
It may look like a road-going Aston Martin Vantage from the outside, but underneath its chassis the GT4 is an all-together different proposition. Built in a separate factory to improve race performance, the GT4 is light on its wheels and rapid down the straights, with the 4.7-litre V8 engine producing a sensational sound. Inside, the car has been overhauled with racing seats, an additional instrument panel and roll bars, all of which add to the racing car experience. With help from your coach, you’ll be able to work on improving your driving technique.
From AED1,500.
Chevrolet Camaro Drag Racing: Driver Experience
Test your reactions at the controls of the muscular Chevrolet Camaro SS, one of the most revered drag racers in the world. Following reaction training and a demonstration by your instructor, you’ll get into the driver’s seat for the first of your eight runs down the drag course. The Camaro’s 400 horsepower, 6.2-litre V8 engine will power you down the track in just over 13 seconds. The vehicle is always tuned and tested throughout to ensure you get the quickest possible run down, while your instructor offers constant professional feedback.
From AED650.
Formula Yas 3000: Driver Experience
Step into the cockpit of the Formula Yas 3000 for a driving experience like no other. This single-seater racer has a custom-built 3,000cc V6 Cosworth engine to propel you down the long straights, while razor-sharp handling will ensure you make it round the corners. You’ll feel every slight bump on the circuit in this low-profile racer, which is fitted out with wings and slick tyres. At the end of the session, your instructor will give you detailed feedback on your performance. And thanks to two on-board cameras, you’ll be able to relive the experience whenever you like.
From AED1,500.
Mercedes AMG: Driver Experience
Take your pick from the stunning AMG line-up for a range of petrol-fuelled activities. Yas Marina Circuit has the keys to the C63, CLS63, E63 and striking ‘Gullwing’, and provides an experience for every fancy and budget. Get behind the wheel and eat up the track through a drag racing adrenaline rush, or challenge yourself by taking on the track’s the sweeping corners. Whatever your choice, the AMG family is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
From AED750.
Yas Supersport Sst: Driver Experience
With exceptional handling and mind-blowing straight-line speed, the Yas SuperSport SST is the perfect way to experience every aspect of the Yas Marina Circuit. Looking like a mini version of a Le Mans racer, the SuperSport SST features high-nose bodywork for increased downforce and improved cooling to maximise the power from the four-cylinder engine, which makes an incredible noise. Throughout the experience you’ll be taught how to master the sequential gearbox and learn all about the car’s amazing grip.
From AED1,200.
Yas Three-Seater Dragster: Passenger Experience
Reaching 100kmph in less than two seconds, and hitting its top speed in only six, the Yas SuperComp Three-Seater Dragster is a one-of-a-kind ride. The 1,050-horsepower machine was specially designed and built for the Yas Drag Racing Centre, and the experience is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Take your seat behind one of Yas Marina Circuit’s professional drag racing instructors and in just six seconds you’ll be hitting top speed.
From AED500.
To reserve a thrilling Yas Experience, call 800 YAS or 02 659 9800, or visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.
