Asian Le Mans Series Returns To UAE In 2022
With significant travel restrictions still in place across the Asia Pacific region the decision has been taken to repeat the successful contingency calendar implemented at the start of 2021 by the Series again in 2022.
The 2022 Asian Le Mans Series will again be contested entirely in the United Arab Emirates across two weekends with double-header races at Dubai Autodrome and the reconfigured Yas Marina Circuit.
All four, four hour races will be held between 11 and 20 February. The calendar will again feature a mix of both night and day racing.
Race 1 – Friday 11 February 2022, Dubai Autodrome
Race 2 – Saturday 12 February 2022, Dubai Autodrome
Race 3 – Saturday 19 February 2022, Yas Marina Circuit
Race 4 – Sunday 20 February 2022, Yas Marina Circuit
The 2021 Asian Le Mans Series saw record grid numbers as existing and new customers for the Series combined, the condensed calendar also attracting a significantly increased live streaming and TV audience.
With the impact of Covid-19 related travel restrictions continuing to be felt around the globe, the decision has been made to retain the same format for the 2022 season with the significant change for 2022 being a considerably longer period of notice of intent for the calendar.
DSC is already aware of a significant number of both LMP and GT teams that are planning to add entries to the Asian Le Mans Series to their current plans.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest:
“This year has been unprecedented for all of us. What is needed now is decisive action to confirm the new calendar to allow our teams the opportunity to confirm their plans with a degree of confidence. I have a thought for the whole Asian continent, once again hard hit by the pandemic. I would also like to salute all the people involved in the Asian Le Mans Series for allowing us to run this extraordinary season at two impressive circuits.”
Frédéric Lequien, CEO Le Mans Endurance Management
“I am very pleased to be able to announce the calendar for the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series. The global pandemic has thrown many challenges at all of us, and our priority has remained to deliver an exciting season, in a safe and cost-effective manner. We are disappointed not to be able to return to our more traditional Asia Pacific circuits. We know they are going through a really tough time at the moment and hope that 2022 brings much brighter days for international motorsport in the region. We look forward to returning there when the time is right. For now, I’m confident that a double-header in the UAE is an ideal solution and look forward to the new season.”
Faisal Al Sahlawi, the Dubai Autodrome General Manager:
“We’re delighted that the world-renowned Asian Le Mans Series will be returning to our venue in 2022. We’re excited to be part of the legendary ‘Road To Le Mans’ race. As a motorsport and entertainment venue based in Dubai, we’re committed to the United Arab Emirates’ vision to bring premier motorsport events to the region.”
Saif Al Noaimi, Acting CEO, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management:
“It is fantastic to have the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series back to Yas Marina Circuit and the UAE as part of our Yas Racing Series weekends. 2021 saw significant participation and world class racing, and 2022 will see the competition take place on the newly configured track which we are getting ready for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021. We look forward to welcoming drivers and teams back to the meeting place of champions.”