Formula One news

Coulthard: Abu Dhabi 'a visual treat'

David Coulthard is convinced that Abu Dhabi's first ever Formula One race will be a fantastic spectacle with which to end the season this weekend. Although both titles may have been wrapped up before the final race for the first time since 2005, the Scot is looking forward to the debut of the new circuit, which he has already driven.

Having taken passengers around the Yas Marina track in a two-seater tandem F1 car, Red Bull driver turned BBC television pundit Coulthard views the lap in halves. "Having had the opportunity to drive the circuit, what struck me is that it's a two-stage track," he told the official F1 website.

The track is located on Yas Island

"The first half of the lap, until corner nine, is typical of the new type of track. There's the fast section at the beginning from Turn 1 to the Turn 4 tight hairpin - with the grandstand literally overhead, giving great viewing for the spectators. The 1.2-kilometre (0.7-mile) back straight should give an opportunity for some slipstreaming and overtaking."

With the modernity of the newest Hermann Tilke circuit on display in abundance, Coulthard pointed out that the setting does not incorporate large run-off areas such as those present in Bahrain or China: "The back section of the circuit has a real street circuit feel to it, where you come along the section that takes you to the hotel and then passes underneath it, via a series of 90 degree right and left-handers before opening out to the end of the lap and a medium-speed corner onto the start/finish straight."

Coulthard is thoroughly looking forward to the season finale

'DC' added by tipping the unusual pit exit - which runs through a tunnel under the track at unlimited speed - as an area to keep an eye on before adding that air-conditioned garages will be very much appreciated by mechanics.

"I think the twilight aspect of the race will be more of a visual treat for the spectators and the TV audience, but I think for the drivers it will be absolutely fine, as there is enough overhead lighting to make it blend seamlessly from day into night, no problem," Coulthard concluded.

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