Just like that, we are onto the final race of the season in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi. Just over 260 days have passed since the first day of testing in Sakhir, Bahrain and already it’s time to gear up for season finale.

• Oscar clinched the 2019 Formula Renault Eurocup and 2021 F2 titles in Abu Dhabi
• The 5.281km circuit is comprised of 16 turns (nine left-handers, seven right-handers) and first held an F1 GP in 2009
• The Yas Marina Circuit has six different track configurations to suit the different series that it hosts
• Abu Dhabi used to be the only current F1 race named after a city rather than a country but has since been joined by Miami, Mexico City, Sao Paulo and Las Vegas in recent years
• The drivers are at full throttle for circa 70% of the lap including the 1.2km straight between T5 and T6
• Yas Island is a manmade island that took 11 years to complete and includes hotels, a golf course, a water park and a theme park

On the final race of the season…

“My first season in Formula 1 has gone by in a flash. I have enjoyed it immensely, learnt a huge amount and can’t quite believe that Year 1 is almost done.

It seems a long time ago that I was making my debut in Bahrain not far from here. It will feel strange not gearing up for any more grands prix in the coming weeks.”

On happy memories…

“This is a track that I’ve been lucky enough to have had a fair bit of success at. The F2 Championship title that I sealed here was less stressful as I managed to get it done with two races to spare.

Formula Renault Eurocup was a lot closer but a win and a fourth place did the job on the final weekend and it was cool to secure both the drivers’ and teams’ titles.”

On 2023…

“A massive thank you to everyone that has supported me throughout 2023. It’s been a year full of learning and new experiences in a new formula, new team and new car.

The team have been exceptional with me, and my thanks go to everyone who has made McLaren so easy to settle into.

A big thanks must also go to all the fans who have been with me every step of the way. All the messages, support and positivity goes such a long way, so thank you.”