Alonso believes Abu Dhabi F1 track changes will aid overtaking
On Thursday, Yas Marina circuit bosses confirmed this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place on a new and improved layout, with a redesign set to be completed over the summer.
The biggest changes will see the chicane removed and the Turn 7 hairpin widened, as well as the introduction of a high-speed banked corner in place of the tight and twisty complex between Turns 11-14.
In addition, the hotel section in the final sector will be opened up to become faster in a bid to help cars follow better.
“I saw the plan and I think it’s good,” Alonso said ahead of this weekend’s Styrian Grand Prix.
“At least they are trying and they are making sure that we are in a position to have a better show. So I’m happy with the idea.”
Two-time world champion Alonso famously found himself stuck behind Renault’s Vitaly Petrov at the 2010 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after Ferrari’s decision to pit him early in the race.
With Alonso unable to overtake Petrov, he ended up missing out on that year’s world championship to Sebastian Vettel.
“I think it is going to be better and at least it is going to be different for all of us, so that the first moment, that joy when you go into free practice and you have a new layout, there are always some things that you try, which is good,” the Spaniard added.
“And then the second thing is it should be better for overtaking, so why not?”
Speaking about the changes, F1 managing director of motorsports Ross Brawn, added: “As host of the Formula 1 season-finale since 2009, Yas Marina Circuit has established itself as one of the most popular venues for motorsport fans around the world to attend.
"We are fully supportive of the decision to make improvements to the track, with the aim of enhancing the overall motorsport experience across the board, including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, for both competitors and spectators.
"Given its position as the final race in the Formula 1 season, it is always a special date on the calendar, and with this year’s event set to be the first on the new-look track and the last race before we enter the new era of F1 in 2022, there is added incentive to look forward to the spectacle.”
