Must-Know Stats Ahead of the 2024 Abu Dhabi GP

After a thrilling season, the 2024 Formula 1 campaign is about to wrap up with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend. From exciting stats to fascinating trivia, here's everything you need to know to get ready for the big race. Plus, you can see how fans have voted using the F1 Play predictor game!

The Weekend Schedule

After the Sprint format in Qatar, it's back to the traditional weekend schedule for Abu Dhabi. Here's when the action takes place:

• FP1 & FP2: Friday, December 6
• FP3 & Qualifying: Saturday, December 7
• Race Day: Sunday, December 8

Vital Stats at a Glance

• First Grand Prix: 2009
• Track Length: 5.281 km
• Lap Record: 1m 26.103s, Max Verstappen, Red Bull (2021)
• Most Pole Positions: Lewis Hamilton (5)
• Most Wins: Lewis Hamilton (5)
• Trivia: Sebastian Vettel, Nico Rosberg, and Max Verstappen all won their first F1 titles here.
• Pole to Turn 1 Braking Point: 194 meters
• Overtakes (2023): 113
• Safety Car Probability: 38%
• Virtual Safety Car Probability: 38%
• Pit Stop Time Loss: 21.93 seconds

F1 Play Fans’ Predictions

Early F1 Play gamers have tipped McLaren's Lando Norris to take pole position, with Max Verstappen closely behind. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc is also in the mix, and the battle for pole promises to be a thrilling one.

Driver Insights

Jolyon Palmer, former Renault F1 driver, has shared his thoughts on the Abu Dhabi circuit. He notes that the layout is faster and more suited for racing after changes in 2021. Key overtaking opportunities include braking into Turn 6 and exiting towards Turn 9. However, the tricky triple right-hander in the final sector can make or break a race.

Recent Pole Sitters & Winners

• Last Five Pole Sitters:
  2023 – Max Verstappen
  2022 – Max Verstappen
  2021 – Max Verstappen
  2020 – Max Verstappen
  2019 – Lewis Hamilton

• Last Five Winners:
  2023 – Max Verstappen
  2022 – Max Verstappen
  2021 – Max Verstappen
  2020 – Max Verstappen
  2019 – Lewis Hamilton

Tyre & Strategy Insight

Pirelli's preview for the weekend highlights the track’s relatively low-grip surface and the importance of managing tyre wear. The track layout is faster now, with several overtaking spots. A two-stop strategy is expected to be the best bet, with the undercut playing a significant role.

Current Form

While McLaren was in strong contention for the Constructors' Championship after Qatar, Ferrari has closed the gap to just 21 points. In the Drivers' Championship, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc are locked in a battle for second place, with Norris holding a narrow advantage.

Max Verstappen, though, is the clear favourite to finish the season with a win, having dominated the season.

Iconic Abu Dhabi Moments

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has given us many iconic moments, but one stands out: the dramatic 2010 showdown. In a nail-biting finale, Sebastian Vettel secured his first world title in a thrilling battle with Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, and Lewis Hamilton.

Beyond the Track

There’s more than just racing happening at Yas Marina Circuit. As part of Formula 1’s sustainability strategy, the event will host various workshops and initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts.

• F1 ACADEMY Workshop: A 'Pathways to F4' session for young athletes.
• Sustainability Efforts: The circuit is committed to reducing its environmental footprint, with upgrades such as LED lighting and energy-saving initiatives.
• Community Engagement: Local fans can enjoy a Pit Lane Walk, Paddock tours, and the 'Kids Go Free Friday' program.