A banked corner will form part of the changes to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina circuit, which includes alterations to no less than 11 corners.
As revealed this week, the circuit, which hosts the final round of the 2021 Formula 1 season, will undergo alternations to promote overtaking.
The chicane will be removed and the turn 7 hairpin will be opened up. Several other corners will be opened to allow for greater apex speeds, including 17, 18, 19 and 20. Meanwhile the slow turns 11, 12, 13 and 14 will be replaced with one sweeping corner, which the circuit has confirmed will be banked.
F1’s managing director of motorsports, Ross Brawn, welcomed the changes which fans and drivers have been calling for for several years.
“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,” said Brawn.
“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.”
Acting CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, Saif Al Noaimi, says the works will be completed well in advance of the December race date.
“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 race, and we look forward to showcasing our new-look track to motorsport fans both locally and internationally in the coming months.”
