Yas Marina Circuit has announced the completion of track renovation work ahead of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, aimed at enhancing the overall race experience for drivers and spectators alike.

 The changes will be highlighted during the 13th edition of the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021 (December 10-12) where the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen will battle it out in closer wheel-to-wheel racing around the new 5.28-km track.

A shorter, faster lap and more overtaking potential will offer fans more action across the race.

Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management said the restructuring took place in three key areas of the track – North Hairpin, South Marina and around the hotel section.  One of the driving factors behind the changes was to increase the average speed and wheel-to-wheel racing around the track to have increased opportunities for drivers to overtake, benefiting the overall motorsport spectacle, for the drivers and fans, it stated.

Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management Deputy CEO Saif Al Noaimi said: “These are the first upgrades to the track since the circuit was first constructed in 2009. Since then, Formula One cars, along with others in our fleets, have evolved in their design and performance and as such, we are committed to progressing with them to offer the ultimate racing experience across the events held at the circuit. The changes will amplify the competitive nature of all motorsports events held at the venue. We are excited to see how the action unfolds on the new circuit layout during next month’s season finale F1.”