Here we are: another season is about to end. As per tradition, since 2014, the final appointment on the calendar of F1 I say Abu Dhabi. The Arab circuit is therefore ready to host the final act of this World Championship.
The history of the Abu Dhabi circuit, marked by Mercedes and Red Bull
The Yas Marina Circuit is a permanent track built on Yas Island, 30 minutes from the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. Designed by architect Hermann Tilke, is long 5281 meters, Presents 16 curves (9 on the left and 7 on the right) e 2 DRS zones, placed between rounds 5 and 6 and between rounds 8 and 9.
Defined by many as one of the ugliest circuits in Formula 1, was modified in 2021 to increase its spectacularity. The chicane leading onto the first long straight was removed, with a further widening of the road section up to 20 meters. Furthermore, the other chicane present in turn 9 was also eliminated to make room for a large bend which can be taken in fourth gear. These changes, along with other minor ones that allow for greater cornering speed, have increased the possibility of overtaking , liveliness of the races.
At the level of palmares, there is a hegemony between Mercedes e Red Bull. These are the two teams that have won the most on Arab soil (6 victories for both). The other two editions held (it was held for the first time in 2009) they saw one triumph McLaren (Hamilton) and one Lotus (Raikkonen). Lewis Hamilton the most successful with 5 first places, followed by Sebastian Vettel e Max Verstappen 3.
The absolute track record and the official record both belong to Verstappen. The first half is 1'22 "109, the second is 1'26 "103. Both were scored on the 2021 weekend.
The night on the Abu Dhabi circuit brings a lot of downforce
The grand prix at Yas Marina has a peculiarity. Like many other races on the calendar, it takes place in night. This leads to a lowering of temperatures. The asphalt itself has a medium grip, but as it gets colder the tires don't enter the correct operating window as quickly. A car capable of doing so will therefore be needed warm up your tires quickly.
Despite having two long straights, the circuit lends itself more to a racing setup medium-high load. We are looking for a car very pointeda understeer practically minimum.
Max to win again, Ferrari to seek redemption
For the last time, it's time for predictions. A perfect vintage SuperMax, which he obviously wants win again. He is, as he has been since the beginning of the year, the Favourite for victory. The one who plays a lot is instead there Ferrari. Alone 4 points laid down by the Mercedes, the Italian team is looking redemption after what happened on the car Sainz in FP1 a Las Vegas. Furthermore, the Maranello car is called to confirm the performance superlative in the American GP, to confirm himself second force for next season.
Article by Francesco Orlando
