For Abu Dhabi F1 is far more than just a race

11/29/2015 3:35:16 AM

(MENAFN- Emirates News Agency (WAM))

ABU DHABI 29th November 2015 (WAM) -- A UAE paper has said that when Abu Dhabi decided it wanted to host a stage of the Formula One season those behind the scheme were at pains to state this was about far more than just a motor race. With the capital hosting its seventh Grand Prix today that original vision is evident because more than almost any other initiative over the past 10 years the Formula One has helped establish Abu Dhabi as an international brand.

"Part of the reason why the event was a good fit for the capital's aspirations was because it mirrored our focus on the future by providing a circuit that some describe as the best in the world including a hotel built over the racetrack" said The National in an editorial on Sunday.

It continued "Having the race start in daylight and then finish in the evening was another innovation that showed we are not bound by convention.

"Another factor was the incredibly short time span between Abu Dhabi being told in 2007 it would host the Formula One and the construction from scratch of the Yas Marina Circuit including the circuit of associated hotels in time for the inaugural race on November 15 2009. This showed the capital's ability to deliver on ambitious projects.

"The effect of all of this has been profound. Those who have lived in the capital since before the Formula One will remember that explaining to people overseas where we live often used to prompt a puzzled expression. The Grand Prix played a major role in changing that aided by developments like the Museum District on Saadiyat Island groundbreaking architecture such as the leaning tower of the Capital Gate building the rapid expansion of Etihad Airways and hosting the global headquarters of Irena at Masdar City.

"The nature of this year's Formula One season where the drivers' and manufacturers' championships were both decided well before the teams made their way to Yas Island demonstrate that hosting this event is about far more than simply motorsport or even the wider tourism benefits. Our guests have come to celebrate Abu Dhabi and the UAE with it.

"The decision to host the Grand Prix was about sending a message to the world that Abu Dhabi deserves to be taken seriously on the world stage. The huge success of the race since 2009 shows we can make good on even hugely ambitious promises" concluded the Abu Dhabi-based daily.

WAM/Esraa/Moran

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