Abu Dhabi: Organisers of the 2012 Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix announced on Thursday that the race weekend has sold out for the fourth consecutive year.
“We are set for one of the most exciting Abu Dhabi race weekends to date,” said Richard Cregan, chief executive officer of Yas Marina Circuit. “The buzz on the track today has been fantastic. People are happy and smiling, lots of families. It really is great and a testament to the quality of the race and Abu Dhabi as a world-class host.”
According to circuit bosses, an unprecedented 35 per cent of ticket sales were to regional and international fans who will be visiting Abu Dhabi this weekend. Key international growth markets for 2012 included Australia, the UK, Europe and the US.
The F1 weekend started early for 6,012 fans as they descended on Yas Marina Circuit on Thursday for the Pit Lane Walk, when they were able to get a behind-the-scenes look at the teams’ preparations for the weekend ahead, greet their favourite drivers and take advantage of the entertainment on offer in the Oasis areas.
Long-time F1 fan Anthony Hvala travelled from Australia to Abu Dhabi to experience the race at Yas Marina for the first time this weekend.
He said: “I travelled 30,000 kilometres for this. I’m very excited. I’ve been planning this for 12 months. I go every year in Melbourne but it’s my first time in Abu Dhabi.”
Abu Dhabi-based Ryan McPherson, who is originally from Scotland, said: “I’m excited about the race. It’s my first Grand Prix and my aunt and uncle have come to join me.”
