F1 Abu Dhabi GP 2024 – All You Need to Know

F1 Abu Dhabi GP 2024 – All You Need to Know

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks the thrilling finale of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Held at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, this night race promises excitement, drama, and high stakes as drivers battle for supremacy under the floodlights. Here's your complete guide to the Abu Dhabi GP, including the start time, how to watch, the starting grid, and TV channel information.

Race Details

**Venue**

**Location:** Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

**Track Length:** 5.28 kilometers (3.28 miles)

**Number of Laps:** 58

**Race Distance:** 306.2 kilometers (190.2 miles)

**Lap Record:** 1:26.103 (Max Verstappen, 2021)

The Yas Marina Circuit is known for its scenic waterfront setting, challenging layout, and unique transition from day to night.

**Start Time and Schedule**

The 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will run on **Sunday, December 8th**. Here is the schedule for the weekend:

**Key Sessions**

**Practice 1:** Friday, December 6th – 1:30 PM local time

**Practice 2:** Friday, December 6th – 5:30 PM local time

**Practice 3:** Saturday, December 7th – 2:30 PM local time

**Qualifying:** Saturday, December 7th – 6:00 PM local time

**Race Start:** Sunday, December 8th – 8:00 PM local time

*Time Zone Note:*

Convert these times to your local timezone to ensure you don’t miss any action. For example:

- UK (GMT): Race starts at 4:00 PM.

- Eastern Time (ET): Race starts at 11:00 AM.

- Indian Standard Time (IST): Race starts at 9:30 PM.

How to Watch

**TV Channels**

The Abu Dhabi GP will be broadcast live across major sports networks worldwide. Here’s a list of key broadcasters by region:

**UK:** Sky Sports F1

**USA:** ESPN / ABC

**India:** Star Sports Select / F1 TV Pro

**Australia:** Fox Sports / Kayo Sports

Online Streaming

For fans who prefer online streaming, several platforms offer live coverage:

**F1 TV Pro:** Official Formula 1 streaming service providing live race coverage, on-demand replays, and exclusive content.

**Sky Go:** Available to Sky Sports subscribers in the UK.

**ESPN+:** Provides race streaming in the USA with additional features like driver onboard cameras.

**Kayo Sports:** A popular choice for Australian viewers, offering flexible packages.

**Starting Grid**

The starting grid for the Abu Dhabi GP was determined after an intense qualifying session. Below is the provisional lineup:

Front Row

1.**Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)**

2.**Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)**

Second Row

3.**Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)**

4.**Lando Norris (McLaren)**

Third Row

5.**Sergio Pérez (Red Bull Racing)**

6.**George Russell (Mercedes)**

Fourth Row

7.**Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)**

8.**Oscar Piastri (McLaren)**

Fifth Row

9.**Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)**

10.**Esteban Ocon (Alpine)**

Drivers outside the top ten, such as Pierre Gasly, Nico Hülkenberg, and Logan Sargeant, will be looking for opportunities to climb through the field with strategic calls and clean racing.

What to Expect from the Race

**The Championship Deciders**

Although Max Verstappen has already clinched the Drivers’ Championship, the battle for second place is still alive, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton neck-and-neck. Similarly, the Constructors' Championship standings see close fights for second and third places between Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren.

**Tire Strategy**

The Yas Marina Circuit places moderate demands on tires due to its mix of high-speed straights, slow corners, and abrasive surfaces. Pirelli has brought the **C3, C4, and C5 compounds**, the softest in their range, to give teams flexibility in strategy. A one-stop strategy is likely for most teams, but unexpected safety cars could mix things up.

**Key Overtaking Zones**

**Turn 5 Hairpin:** A prime overtaking spot, especially with DRS assistance on the straight following it.

**Back Straight (Turns 6-7):** Another DRS zone where late braking can lead to daring moves.

Race History at Yas Marina Circuit

The Abu Dhabi GP has a history of producing memorable moments, from title-deciding showdowns to dramatic finishes. Some highlights include:

**2010:** Sebastian Vettel clinched his first world title, starting a streak of four consecutive championships.

**2021:** The controversial finale where Max Verstappen overtook Lewis Hamilton on the final lap to win the title.

- **2023:** Fernando Alonso claimed a surprise podium, showcasing Aston Martin’s resurgence.

Additional Viewing Options

**Pre- and Post-Race Coverage**

Most broadcasters provide extensive pre-race coverage with insights from pundits, interviews with drivers, and behind-the-scenes content. Post-race shows typically include podium celebrations, analysis of key moments, and team interviews.

**Onboard Cameras and Team Radios**

Platforms like F1 TV Pro and some regional broadcasters allow fans to choose driver-specific onboard cameras and listen to real-time team radios for a more immersive experience.

Fan Engagement

**Trackside Activities**

For those attending the race in Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit offers more than just on-track action. Fans can enjoy:

- Concerts featuring global music stars post-race.

- Pit lane walks and driver autograph sessions.

- A wide range of food stalls, merchandise shops, and family-friendly activities.

**Virtual Engagement**

Formula 1 has ramped up its virtual presence, offering fans features like:

**F1 Fantasy:** Build your team and compete for bragging rights.

**Race Predictor:** Test your skills by predicting the race outcome for a chance to win prizes.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

The Abu Dhabi GP is not just about the race; it’s an experience. The unique night-time setting, the dramatic end-of-season stakes, and the spectacle of Formula 1 make it a must-watch event. Whether you’re a seasoned F1 fan or a newcomer, this is the perfect race to enjoy the thrill and glamour of motorsport.

Grab your snacks, tune in to your preferred channel, and get ready to witness the culmination of the 2024 Formula 1 season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix!