Brawn impressed with Yas Marina

Ross Brawn, team principal of constructors' champions Brawn GP, speaks of his admiration of Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit.

Ross Brawn, team principal of constructors' champions Brawn GP, has spoken of his admiration of Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit. The 54-year-old arrived in the emirate yesterday and says that while his outfit have yet to take to the 5.5km track, the facilities on offer at Yas Island have raised the bar in terms of motorsport. "Abu Dhabi has set a new standard in Formula One ? it is absolutely incredible," he said. "We haven't been on the track yet so we don't have an opinion there, but the commitment and investment Abu Dhabi has shown in terms of facilities is staggering. "It's really very impressive and something that the government and country should be extremely proud of." Brawn had never visited the city until this weekend, but added he is keen to discover more about the country and its culture. "It's my first time here, so I haven't got a strong impression yet; I am still finding my way around. But I am very impressed with what has been achieved here. "It's very professional, the standard is very high and you can see the quality. I look forward to learning more about the country." Brawn was in relaxed mood at the Yas Marina launch event last night and says he intends to remain at ease throughout the season's final race weekend. Brawn GP driver Jenson Button has already sealed the Drivers' Championship, while the team are also unreachable atop of the Constructors' Championship standings. "I think it's going be a fascinating weekend for us because the pressure is off now," he added. "Obviously we want to win, but it will be nice to go into this race without the pressure that has followed us for the past six months, or maybe longer. I think it is going to be a lot of fun." [e-mail]