Abu Dhabi confirms track layout changes for F1 2021 finale

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has often lacked action in recent years, leading to criticism from fans and drivers.

According to RaceFans, Turns 4, 5 and 6 will be converted into a single left-handed hairpin.

The second change will take place at Turns 11, 12, 13 and 14, replaced with a single, sweeping banked left-hand curve.

Speaking at the launch show, acting Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management CEO, Saif Al Noaimi, confirmed that the changes made to the track will take place over the summer.

“We’ve been looking at improving the racing on the track. We’ve been listening to our spectators, the fans, the drivers, F1 and the FIA, and we’ve been working on making some changes, exciting changes, this year to the layout of the track.

“We will be undergoing some modifications to the track over the summer in time for this year’s edition of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. We are very much looking forward to sharing more information on the changes in the upcoming months."

With just 12 points separating Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton at the top of the championship, organisers are hopeful Abu Dhabi can host its first title decider since 2016.

Since making its debut on the F1 calendar in 2009, Abu Dhabi has witnessed three title showdowns.

Sebastian Vettel won his first title back in 2010 in a four-way title finale at the expense of Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber and Hamilton.

Hamilton won his second title in the double-points decider in 2014, while Nico Rosberg beat his Mercedes teammate to the 2016 title at the Yas Marina Circuit.

“The objective ultimately is to create more opportunities for close wheel-to-wheel racing," Al Noaimi added.

“We want to create more overtaking opportunities and to overall create a faster flowing race track, given the current rules of the vehicles.

“So we're really looking forward to seeing some overtaking and action, and hopefully the championship will come down to the wire and be determined here at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.”