View from the top! the atmosphere is growing on Abu Dhabi Hill as practice laps start

Yas Marina Circuit’s best value and iconic vantage point is abuzz with excitement ahead of Sunday’s title decider between Hamilton and Rosberg

Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, 21 November, 2014: Thousands of F1 fans flocked to the iconic Abu Dhabi Hill today to get an early taste of the unique atmosphere as the F1, GP2 and GP3 teams warmed up ahead of the 2014 FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX.

The now-famous hill at Yas Marina Circuit has grown in popularity yet remains one of the most cost-effective experiences for grassroots supporters. The ‘Hill’ was abuzz with excitement as the racing cars took to the track for practice laps. Many fans were keen to catch a first glimpse of the Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, who will battle it out for Championship glory on Sunday in what has been dubbed the “Duel in the Desert”.

Abu Dhabi Hill has become well known among die-hard racing fans around the world as an incredible vantage point from which to see the drama unfold.

The hill affords clear views of turns 4, 5, 6 and 7, the north hairpin and the famous straight – the longest in Formula One.

Harris Foxton, aged 27, from Scotland, said: “I watched the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on the television last year, and I remember seeing this hill and thinking how fantastic it looked, and now here I am!

“It’s even better in real life – the atmosphere is electric, people are cheering and enjoying themselves.
“It’s a very friendly atmosphere, and everyone seems to be making new friends, listening to music and looking forward to the qualifiers and main race. It’s a real party atmosphere up here!”

The atmosphere throughout Yas Marina Circuit is particularly charged this year as a record capacity of 60,000 look forward to Sunday’s historic showdown between Rosberg and Hamilton.

The German’s recent victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix brought him within 17 points of championship leader Hamilton, setting up a mouthwatering season finale.

Speculation over the result was rife among fans on Abu Dhabi Hill today.

“This one’s hard to call,” said Gerhard Abner, aged 43, from Zurich, attending his tenth F1 Grand Prix event. “With so much at stake I can see the pressure getting to 

Hamilton, which leaves the door wide open for Rosberg. Everyone here on the hill has an opinion, it’s so exciting!”