On track!

As the 2009 Formula 1 season kicks off in Australia in less than two weeks, the countdown to the inaugural F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – due to be held on November 1 – starts in the UAE capital.

It has been two years since construction began to develop Yas Marina Circuit into a noteworthy Grand Prix venue. With the completion of the circuit on schedule, the team behind it is currently adding finishing touches to what has been hyped as the most unique motorsport venue in the world.

"Whenever I get out to the circuit, there is something new," says Phillipe Gurdjian, CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM) – a joint venture between the Government of Abu Dhabi and Aldar Properties PJSC that is responsible for overseeing the circuit's development.

"The most noticeable work on the circuit recently has been the laying of the track's tarmac," he says. "You can see the first sections of tarmac at the North Grandstand and more is being laid each day." The circuit is primed to be a showcase for the latest advances in Formula 1 technology. One important application of this technology is the digi-flag system – something that will improve communication with the drivers, as Gurdjian explains.

"With this system, a message is sent instantaneously to all of the digital flags around the circuit at the push of a button," he says. "This means that there is no delay in the message reaching the drivers – something that can happen, when marshals are positioned around the circuit waving a flag."

Adding to the excitement
Gurdjian believes the ingenious design of the pit lane will aid driver safety. "For the first time ever drivers will re-join the track via a tunnel that runs underneath it," he says.

"This will ensure that their pace is equal to the cars on the track and at a position off the racing line and therefore the safest way possible." The unique aspect of the pit lane exit tunnel is only one of many features that reflect Gurdjian's passion for making Yas Marina Circuit not only the pinnacle of driver safety but also of spectator enjoyment. A perfect example of this is the run-off area at the corner in front of the West Grandstand, which continues underneath the grandstand.

"This feature ensures that if the driver makes a mistake or runs wide, there is plenty of space for him to correct his error and continue the race. The added benefit for the spectators is that the car will disappear right under their feet, which should be spectacular. I would also suspect that this area will become a favourite with photographers too," he says.

Impressive views
According to Gurdjian, the facilities available for the duration of the Grand Prix are guaranteed to impress the Formula One teams.

"The team buildings are very special," he says. "They have one of the best views at the circuit looking out over the marina as well as the stunning Yas Marina Hotel. There is also plenty of space for entertaining their guests, offices for strategy and technical meetings and rooms for drivers to relax in before the race."

In the design of this circuit, it seems that no aspect has gone unnoticed by Gurdjian and his team. "The attention to detail is very important to me," he says.

"For instance, every room will have its own air conditioning. This may seem a small detail, but it is how we make a point
of difference." As the world of Formula One descends on Abu Dhabi, ADMM is determined to make a favourable impression, while retaining elements of the host city's culture. "The biggest task is to ensure Yas Marina Circuit reflects the essence of Abu Dhabi's understated elegance and is in keeping with other landmark developments in the Emirates," says Gurdjian.