Yas Marina Circuit’s ‘Virtual Driver Experience’ goes live

Motorsports fans around the world can now drive the spectacular new Yas Marina Circuit, months before Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton, and the rest of the professional drivers arrive for the first Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Yas Marina Circuit’s ‘Virtual Driver Experience’, launched today, provides a unique opportunity to experience the adrenalin rush of the most anticipated race-track in the world and see some of its special features from the driver’s perspective. Navigate the tricky hairpin inside the arena atmosphere of the North Grandstand, reach maximum speed on F1’s longest straight, wind around the multiple turns of Yas Marina, and pass underneath The Yas Hotel.

The Virtual Driver Experience can be played online by visiting www.yasmarinacircuit.com

Users race the circuit using keyboard controls, trying to stay on the ideal driving line and gearing up or down to maximize their speed and record the fastest lap-time.

Mr Richard Cregan, CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, Yas Marina Circuit’s operating company, said, “There is so much interest in Yas Marina Circuit and the race here in Abu Dhabi on November 1st that the Virtual Driver Experience is a great opportunity for motor sports fans to get as close to the action as possible before race day”.

He added, “Our Virtual Driver Experience is simple to use but a challenge to master. Whether you are accelerating down the longest straight on any Formula 1 circuit, skidding off the track under the Grandstand, tackling the tricky Marina and Yas Yacht Club corners or driving beneath The Yas Hotel, every lap offers a challenge. Once you’ve posted your time, you can also challenge others to better it through the “send to a friend” option.”

The first Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be held from 30 October - 1 November 2009.