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Three support races and the unexpected element of racing on a new track is what race organisers are promising alongside the inaugural Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to be held from October 30-November 1.

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Richard Cregan, the CEO of organisers Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM) announced yesterday that three support races - the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup, the GP2 Asia Series and the Chevrolet Supercars Middle East Challenge - will be run alongside the final round of the 2009 F1 Grand Prix calendar.

"It's normal to have one or maybe two support races running alongside a F1 race weekend. But here, fans can be assured of some amazing excitement with three top-class support races to prop a veritable and memorable weekend of racing," Cregan stated.

"It's going to be quite spectacular and in a little more than two months time, all eyes will be on Abu Dhabi and the Yas Marina Circuit as we cross a milestone for the UAE," Cregan added.

Established only last season, the GP2 Asia Series is an ideal stepping stone for aspiring F1 drivers. No wonder then that Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Timo Glock have all passed through the portals of GP2 driving when the series was first launched in Europe in 2005.

"GP2 drivers are normally known to trying out optimistic moves on the circuit, so some of the safety features of the track are sure to be tried out," noted Bruno Senna, runner-up of the 2008 GP2 main series.

The 25-year-old, who drove around the Yas Marina Circuit with Chevrolet Supercars Middle East Challenge driver Tarek Elgammal on Tuesday to get a feel of the track, was unruffled at what lay ahead for the opening races. "There is no prior data for the teams and drivers to use so expect all the excitement and some unexpected results over the weekend," added Senna, nephew of the legendary Ayrton Senna.

"In general, it will be a great way to start the circuit and prepare it for the challenges ahead," the Brazilian added.

"I am really excited about the Yas Marina Circuit. It is one of the most challenging circuits I have ever been on. Before coming here I thought it would be quite featureless as it is close to the sea, but they have managed to put in some exciting features along with a few fast and blind corners," Senna stated.