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After an action-packed weekend in Dubai, the MRF Challenge 2017 will return to the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi for Round 3. This is the first time that back-to-back races will happen in the FIA=sanctioned championship. The MRF Challenge race in Abu Dhabi will take place along with the prestigious Gulf 12 Hours race. The MRF F2000 last raced here in 2015 and will return with all races being held under lights.
Mr. Arun Mammen, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, MRF Tyres, commented, "Yas Marina is one of the best new circuits in the world and it is our pleasure to race here again. After a buzzing Dubai race the drivers can’t wait to race here."
"The Championship is shaping up well and this circuit provides a good opportunity for the drivers to showcase their abilities. Night races are a treat to watch and am sure fans will enjoy every moment of the F2000 cars under the lights.”
Presley Martono was on pole position in Dubai and took his first ever win in the series. Rinus Van Kalmthout won Race 2 while Felipe Drugovich took two wins. Brazilian driver Drugovich extended his lead at the front by winning two races in Dubai.
He is in first place, with 150 points. The battle behind him is close with Indonesian driver Martono on 132 points, just eight points ahead of Dutch driver van Kalmthout. GP3 driver Julien Falchero had a tough weekend in Dubai and has slipped to fourth place, with 105 points.
The Yas Marina circuit has become a popular venue for motorsport enthusiasts with the F1 finale being held here every year. The circuit is 5.55km long with many twists and turns. It has a good combination of high-speed straights and technical corners. The circuit was constructed with a permanent lighting system and is the largest permanent sports venue lighting project in the world.
The Indian based series, which features Formula 3 style cars, is developed and promoted by tyre giant MRF Tyres. It continues to be the only Indian based series racing not only internationally, but also at F1 venues. Both Bahrain and Abu Dhabi are on the Formula One calendar giving drivers the hone their skills in world-class circuits.
