The GP2 Asia Series explores new venues, and in its third season the Series will write another chapter as it will become the first racing series to run on the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. The 2009-2010 GP2 Asia Series will open this new track with a two-day test on 23 and 24 October, with the third season kicking off a week later as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix support race.

After a well-deserved break, the thirteen teams will return to the same track on 5 and 6 February as the main event. Two weeks later, the Series will fly to Bahrain on 26 and 27 February for the third round while the conclusion of the season will take place again in Bahrain on 13 and 14 March supporting the Formula One Grand Prix.

Bruno Michel, GP2 Series Organiser, said: "I am happy to note that this calendar is in line with the economical strategy we implemented in GP2 Series this year: we put together a programme that will not only generate good racing but will also keep costs in check and therefore will keep our Series healthy.

"In fact, organising four rounds this time around compared to six the previous season, and having all of them take place only in the Middle East helps maintaining the freight costs at a reasonable level for everyone. Of course, for the seasons to come, the number of races will be revised.

"After two strong years that generated a lot of interest throughout the world and more specifically in Asia and the Middle East, the GP2 Asia Series is back on a new circuit but also with fifty percent of its events running alongside Formula One. I have no doubt that we will once again enjoy an exciting season with twenty-six drivers fighting every inch on the way to the title!"