The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 is a celebration of engineering marvels navigating challenging twists and turns, all under the watchful eye of a passionate global audience. It’s the season of adventure filled with drama, competition, and sports, and it’s the place where champions are crowned, and legends are born. Since its inception in 2009, the event has come a long way to bring world-class motorsport to the Middle East. In this article, we will take a journey through the timeline of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix event from 2009 to 2023. Also, explore how Formula 1 Abu Dhabi has evolved from its humble beginnings to its current stage as one of the most awaited and anticipated events in the world sports calendar.
Ideology of Hosting the Event
In the early 2000s, when the Emirate of Abu Dhabi decided to diversify its economy and showcase its sports innovation to the world, the idea of hosting a Formula 1 race emerged. Yas Marina Circuit, the brainchild of this vision was designed by renowned architect Hermann Tilke. The circuit was officially opened in 2009. The circuit stands as a statement of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a global hub for sports and entertainment.
Timeline of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Inaugural Race -2009
The very first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took place on November 1st, 2009. The race was a monumental moment for Formula 1 as it marked the first-ever day-night race in the sport’s history. The stunning Yas Marina Circuit, with its state-of-the-art facilities and the Yas Hotel as its backdrop, set a new standard for Formula 1 venues.
The world-famous driver, Sebastian Vettel claimed the victory of the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for driving Red Bull Racing. With the hype of victory, the race instantly became known for its excitement & thrill, attracting celebrities and high-VIPs from all over the world to attend the event.
2010-2013 Formula 1 Race V8 Era
The 2010 Formula 1 Race and the World Driver Championship was held on the Yas Marina Circuit, where Sebastian Vettel completed his second consecutive win on the track and sealed the world championship.
The 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took place from 11th to 13th November. Lewis Hamilton in McLaren Mercedes won the race followed by Fernando Alonso in a Ferrari, and Jenson Button in McLaren Mercedes in second and third place respectively.
In 2012, Kimi Räikkönen won the race for the first time, Fernando Alonso finished 2nd, and the championship leader Sebastian Vettel finished the race in the 3rd position.
In 2013, the Grand Prix was won by Sebastian Vettel for the third time.
After securing their fourth consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships at the Indian Grand Prix, the team marked their accomplishments in Abu Dhabi. They celebrated by having David Coulthard execute a series of thrilling doughnut performances on the helipad of Dubai’s luxurious Burj Al Arab Hotel, located a breathtaking 210 meters (690 feet) above ground level.
2014 – Present V6 Era
In 2014, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked the concluding race of the Formula One World Championship on November 23rd. Lewis Hamilton has been announced as the winner, securing his Driver’s Championship title for the second time.
Moving on to the 2015 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which occurred on November 29, 2015, Nico Rosberg emerged victorious, achieving his third consecutive win.
Forwarding to the 2016 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 27, 2016. Lewis Hamilton claimed another triumph, making it four consecutive wins for him. The race featured Nico Rosberg and Sebastian Vettel, with Rosberg securing his one and only Drivers’ Championship.
2017 to 2023 V6 Era
In 2017, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix unfolded on November 26. Valtteri Bottas clinched the victory, with Lewis Hamilton finishing second and Sebastian Vettel taking the third spot on the track.
The year 2018 brought us to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 25. Lewis Hamilton once again triumphed, with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen in the second and third place respectively.
In 2019, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was held on 1st December and the race was won by the champion Lewis Hamilton, with Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc in the second and third place.
The 2020 Grand Prix was hosted with utmost safety due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Max Verstappen, Valtteri Bottas, and Lewis Hamilton won the race in the first three places respectively.
In 2021, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management and Formula 1 signed a contractual agreement to hold the final race of the F1 until 2030. The same year Max Verstappen won his first World Driver’s Championship followed by Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz.
Later in 2022, the Grand Prix was hosted on 20th November and Max Verstappen won the championship with Charles Leclerc and Seigo Perez in second and third place.
For 2023, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Formula has been scheduled to mark its presence on Yas Marina Circuit on November 23rd. Further information will be announced soon!
Key Highlights of the Racing Night
The unique day-night transition quickly became one of the defining features of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The race starts in the late afternoon, with the setting sun creating breathtaking visuals as the cars race under the fading light. As the race progresses, the circuit’s floodlights illuminate the track, transforming it into a mesmerizing spectacle. Over the years, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has witnessed its fair share of memorable moments and dramatic races. It’s become a title decider for the World Drivers’ Championship on several occasions.
When is the 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?
The Formula 1 Abu Dhabi 2023 is scheduled to take place from 23rd November to 26th November. The race will start at 1 p.m. The after-race concerts & other entertainment activities will be updated soon!
Last year’s Grand Prix was one of the most exciting and electrifying sports on the calendar with Max Verstappen claiming his first world championship. Without a doubt, this year is going to be exciting, and thrilling, and is one you cannot miss!
Be part of the elite event to witness the roaring engines and bustling champions!
