Abu Dhabi extends season-finale deal with F1 until 2030

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The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to bookend the Formula 1 season until 2030 following the extension of its contract with the sport's commercial rights holder Liberty Media.

Grand Prix racing's traditional curtain-closing event at Yas Marina has been a fixture on the calendar since 2009 and grown in popularity even since.

"We are delighted to confirm that we will be racing in Abu Dhabi until 2030 under this new agreement," said Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

"We are hugely looking forward to the season finale this weekend when more Formula 1 history will be made.

"The promoter, ADMM, always creates an incredible show for the final race of every F1 season and, combined with the changes made to improve the racing on the Yas Marina Circuit, we are excited for many years of racing in Abu Dhabi that is ahead of us."

Read also - Masi gives Miami thumbs-up: 'It's a proper circuit'

This weekend's showdown between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton will take place on a slightly revised lay-out – shortened by 273 meters to 5.28km - that should boost overtaking opportunities.

After a six-year stronghold by Mercedes, from 2014 to 2019, Red Bull and Verstappen won last time out in 2020.

But they say, past results are not an indication of future performances!

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.