Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 predictions: Here’s a look at the 2023 Abu Dhabi GP preview, schedule, live stream details and our predictions for the race at the Yas Marina Circuit
Formula 1 made its debut in Abu Dhabi during the inaugural Formula One Festival in 2007. Then, for the 2009 season, the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix became a part of the racing calendar. Initially set for November 15, 2009, as the 19th and ultimate Grand Prix of the season, this historic event marked Formula One’s first day-night race, commencing at 17:00 local time.
The 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix serves as the conclusive race for the 2023 Formula One World Championship, marking the twenty-second and final round. Max Verstappen holds the lead in the Drivers’ Championship with 549 points, followed by his teammate Sergio Pérez trailing by 276 points and Lewis Hamilton by an additional 41 points. Hamilton, in turn, maintains a 32-point lead over Carlos Sainz Jr. and shares the same points with Fernando Alonso in fourth. Red Bull Racing dominates the Constructors’ Championship with 822 points, standing 430 points ahead of Mercedes and an additional four points ahead of Ferrari. McLaren secures the fourth position, trailing Ferrari by 104 points, while also leading Aston Martin by 11 points in fifth place.
The Yas Marina Circuit, located on Yas Island near Abu Dhabi, serves as the hosting venue for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. It was meticulously designed by Hermann Tilke. This circuit, being the second Formula One track in the Middle East after Bahrain, paved the way for subsequent tracks in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Prior to the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a two-day GP2 Asia Series test took place to inaugurate the circuit officially. Notably, the circuit holds an FIA Grade 1 license.
Situated on Yas Island, the circuit is positioned on a headland separated from the mainland by a canal. Comprising sixteen corners and various straight sections, it boasts five grandstand areas – the Main, West, North, South, and Marina Grandstands. Notably, a section of its pit lane exit is beneath the track. Additionally, the circuit features a team building behind the pit area, a Media Center, Dragster Track, and a VIP Tower.
Lewis Hamilton holds the title as the most successful driver in the history of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing a record-breaking five victories at this circuit. Following closely, Max Verstappen holds the second position with three wins, tying with retired racer Sebastian Vettel’s record. Mercedes and Red Bull top the charts as the most successful constructors, boasting six wins in this Grand Prix. Additionally, Max Verstappen’s lap timing of 1:26.103, achieved while driving a Mercedes W10 during the 2019 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, stands as the official race lap record at this event.
Practice 1: Friday, November 24 – 15:00 IST
Practice 2: Friday, November 24 – 18:30 IST
Practice 3: Saturday, November 25 –16:00 IST
Qualifying: Saturday, November 25 – 19:30 IST
Race: Sunday, November 26 – 18:30 IST
In the United States, Formula 1 fans can immerse themselves in the excitement of the sport through the ESPN network. In the UK, Sky Sports offers comprehensive coverage of the entire Formula 1 season, including practice sessions and race outcomes. On the other hand, viewers in India have access to F1 Pro TV, where they can enjoy live broadcasts of the qualifying session and the main race, along with the convenience of streaming all practice sessions and qualifying events.
Max Verstappen’s recent performances suggest he’ll likely be the frontrunner in this race. However, the competition looks fierce, with contenders like Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz, Lewis Hamilton, and Sergio Perez ready to challenge. While Verstappen seems poised for the top spot (P1), Hamilton is expected to secure second place (P2), and Leclerc is anticipated to claim the third position on the podium (P3). It’ll be an exciting battle among these top drivers!
Follow our dedicated Formula One page for instant Formula One news and updates