Etihad Arena transforms into supercross dust observe for WSX Abu Dhabi GP

As the world’s greatest supercross riders descend on Yas Island for the FIM World Supercross Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Saturday, November 4, Etihad Arena is ready to endure its transformation right into a supercross observe for the primary time.

Around 7,000 tonnes of dust, which has been regionally sourced within the UAE, will likely be trucked into the Middle East’s largest indoor leisure venue through 400 truckloads for an evening of adrenaline and thrills.

WSX tracks are designed to ship top quality racing and permit alternatives for the riders to go sooner, push tougher and ship a excessive degree of pleasure and competitiveness for followers.

“The success of an event like this, where we are completely transforming a venue, relies on flawless event operations, with every detail from track construction to logistics being carefully orchestrated in collaboration between our local team at Ethara and the track design team at World Supercross from start to finish,” stated Salem Al Sulaimani, Event Operations Director at Ethara.

The total transformation course of, from turning a clear venue right into a completed racing observe, will take roughly 4 days, involving 16 totally different types of earth transferring equipment reminiscent of excavators, dozers, and road sweepers.

The dust used is clay-based, rigorously chosen to stick to security regulation whereas offering the perfect composition for the supercross observe.

Spectators can witness the world’s high riders battle it out on a observe that guarantees nothing in need of jaw-dropping motion and pleasure. Limited WSX Abu Dhabi GP tickets are nonetheless accessible, beginning at 110 AED for the day.

3 DAYS TO GO! #WSX 🇦🇪

📍Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi UAE
4th November // FIM World Supercross Championship #AbuDhabiGrandPrix#Ethara#MomentsThatMatter#InAbuDhabi #FIM #WorldSupercrossChampionship #Supercross pic.twitter.com/3e431qWujS

— WSXChampionship (@WSXChampionship) November 1, 2023

Key highlights of the Etihad Arena Supercross observe embody:

Unique two row begin gate

The begin of a supercross race is a pivotal second. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will see a twin row begin, with ten riders on the entrance and ten on the rear, a departure from the usual 20-wide configuration.

A rider’s begin will likely be of paramount significance, making qualifying and gate picks extra essential than ever. The high ten riders on the entrance will get pleasure from a definite benefit over these behind them.

In a sport the place each inch issues, the Abu Dhabi race and its distinctive two row begin gate guarantees excessive motion.

Rhythms

The Etihad Arena observe will boast a number of rhythm sections, composed of a number of jumps strung collectively, permitting riders varied line decisions based mostly on private desire, expertise, split-second determination making, and strategic strikes impressed by their rivals on the day.

Triple soar

The most vital soar on the observe at Etihad Arena, often known as the “Triple”, includes three jumps that riders should clear in a single leap, masking an approximate distance of 70 ft. A miscalculation right here may make or break a rider’s efficiency.

Whoops

The whoops part presents a protracted stretch of small, evenly spaced bumps, making a rolling sensation.

Fans will watch on nervously because the WSX riders navigate this part at breakneck speeds, testing their stability, management, and timing. Success right here can result in precious seconds gained, however even a slight error can lead to a big lack of velocity and management.

Outside part

A particular a part of the observe, looping outdoors of the Etihad Arena in a primary for the venue, the skin part gives two tight rhythm sections with corners that promise thrilling passing alternatives, but in addition pose excessive dangers for errors.

Upon re-entering the world, riders face a difficult wall soar, adopted by a cut up s-bend that presents two distinct line decisions. The riders then deal with the rhythm part as soon as extra earlier than crossing the end line. 

Finish line double

Serving because the end line at Etihad Arena, the “finish line double” is a essential a part of the observe. While it might appear simple, it gives passing alternatives within the corners earlier than and after, rewarding riders with distinctive talent and precision.