Drive on the Yas Marina Circuit before Button or Hamilton!

Fans around the world can now race on the brand new Abu Dhabi Circuit thanks to an online simulation game. A few months before the first Grand Prix of the United Arab Emirates, you can experience the thrills of a race on the Yas Marina Circuit; well before Button, Hamilton, or Alonso have set their wheels on it.

The ‘Virtual Experience Driver’ was officially launched today on the Emirates circuit website: https://www.yasmarinacircuit.com. The game offers a simulation of qualifying in real Grand Prix conditions with an entirely identical setting, from the fish-shaped building to the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar. Your goal will be to choose the best trajectory and therefore achieve the best lap time.

The launch is primarily a commercial effort to convince the last hesitant individuals to buy their tickets for the event of the 2009 season. The United Arab Emirates Grand Prix will be held from October 30 to November 1, 2009. There are still a few thousand tickets available.

Richard Cregan, Director of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management and designer of the Yas Marina Circuit said: « During this weekend, so many races and events are going to happen that it’s very interesting to offer the opportunity for anyone who wants to practice on the Yas Marina Circuit track before the big day. »

« Our developed software is very easy to use. Accessible to all but much more complicated to master. It’s a real simulator and you need to control, whether you’re at the beginning of the main straight, drifting at the next turn, or in the winding corners of the Club. The ‘Send to a friend’ option also allows you to compare your times with those of your friends. »

Small downside, however: depending on your internet connection, the game may take up to six minutes to load.