Formula One News

Brief History

Situated on Yas Island, just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, The Yas Marina Circuit is unique, as it is the only circuit in the world where a 5-star hotel actually straddles the track. Guests staying at the Yas Hotel have their own entrance to the circuit, as well as access to the Paddock via a purpose-built footbridge.

In November 2009, the Yas Marina Circuit not only hosted its first ever Formula one Grand Prix, but also F1’s first twilight race. Powerful lights were used to ensure a seamless transition from day to night.

The circuit distinctive and innovational layout, was designed by renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke, and is set to revolutionise the design of future Formula One circuits.

Built with the thought of exciting racing in mind, the Yas Marina circuit offers drivers top speeds of 320 km/h and an average speed of 195 km/h. The track also includes the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, as well as nine right turns and eleven left. It is also one of the few circuits on the race calendar to run in a anti-clockwise direction.

Other new F1 circuits firsts which have been introduced in the design of the Yas Marina Circuit include, the first ever pit lane which sees the cars exit via a tunnel which passes under the track. Plus, every single grandstand seat on Yas Marina Circuit is undercover, this
is in order to protect spectators from the desert sun.