UAE striker and F1 fanatic Ismail Matar loves the Abu Dhabi GP

A self-confessed Formula 1 fan, Matar was fresh from Al Wahda’s 2-0 win over nearby Ban Yas over the weekend as he took his seat to catch the fourth Abu Dhabi Gran Prix – when Sport360 managed to catch a few words with the star striker.

Are you a big  F1 fan?
Ismail Matar: Definitely! It’s my favourite sport after football. I follow all the rounds of the championship and I have come to know the smallest details of this wonderful sport. It really creates a special atmosphere wherever it is held.

Do you follow any team or driver in particular?
IM: Yeah, the Spaniard Alonso. He is an accomplished driver and drives a great car who has managed some outstanding performance this season. I hope he manages to achieve a world title, despite the challenge of the Sebastian Vettel’s Red Bull.

Do you think that Alonso is still capable of winning title?
IM: I can’t say for certain, no. But he is a beautiful driver. The world championship will not be resolved in Abu Dhabi and the points race is still very close between them, to the battle will continue until the very last round. No driver has any real advantage over the other.

What do you think about the Yas Marina circuit, then?
IM: It’s definitely one of the most difficult circuits in the world. I have never been to any of the other circuits in the world, but I have obviously seen all of the races on television and have read extensively on the circuits. I think that the Yas Marina Circuit is the best ever. I’m not just saying this as an Emirati, but the atmosphere is unique. It’s the most amazing the round in the world championship.

 

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