NOVEMBER 4, 2011

Button hopes DRS will transform Abu Dhabi

Jenson Button hopes that DRS, in association with KERS, will make next weekend's penultimate round of the world championship a fitting show at what McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh regards as "probably the most futuristic and impressive circuit on the calendar."

"Abu Dhabi has special memories for me because it was my first race after I'd won the world championship in 2009," Button says, "so it made racing that weekend a really fun and enjoyable experience - I remember I had a fantastic battle with Mark [Webber] and finished third.

"The Yas Marina circuit looks and feels spectacular and futuristic: it's a unique place - the way the circuit changes from dusk to darkness is incredible and must be an amazing experience for the spectators.

"It's usually been quite difficult to overtake, especially last year, but I think DRS will change all that. The back straight is one of the longest so I expect to see a lot of action there. It would be great to see the new rules turn this circuit into a place where overtaking is more common."

Lewis Hamilton, meanwhile, is always mighty as Yas Marina, taking pole in 2009 and finishing second last year.

"I led in 2009 until I was forced to stop because of a brake issue," he remembers. "Last year, I finished second and set the fastest lap, so we head there looking to convert all that potential into a race win.

"I think we've got every reason to be confident. This circuit should really suit the characteristics of our car - we should be able to capitalise on the layout to maximise the benefit of DRS and KERS, both of which are very strong on our car.

"Red Bull and Sebastian may have clinched both championships, but I'm still determined to end the season on a winning high. I've won two grands prix this year, and I'd love to double that by the end of the year!"