Richard Cregan has confirmed he is under pressure to make money on the most expensive circuit in Formula One history.

The CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management believes the inaugural grand prix in the Emirati state was a success, and the Yas Marina venue, an oil-funded £800million jewel, certainly provided a stunning backdrop to the season-ending grand prix.

"My brief is to make money and that's come from our chairman, His Excellency. He has made that very clear," said Cregan on what is being demanded from Abu Dhabi's ruler, Khaldoon Khalifa al Mubarak. "What's expected is we make money, we make this place pay, that Yas Marina becomes a successful project in terms of financial issues as well as everything else."

He added: "So far he's been pleased. He's had a lot of positive feedback. In general, we're in a very positive place and we're very happy with that.

"But we're at a time where we need to deliver. Formula One is a tough business.

"We've invested a lot of time and effort in making this a good circuit and we want to maintain that, but we've a lot of work to do."

Cregan is convinced Abu Dhabi will continue to succeed where other new circuits are now struggling to attract the fans.

"A lot of new grands prix tend to fall off after the first year," remarked Cregan. "But we will have even more to offer, in terms of the facilities and the other attractions, that will compensate for that.

"The opening of Ferrari World and the like won't necessarily increase the demand, but it will ensure there is a constant demand.

"We've already got people looking to book tickets and hotels for next year, so we believe we'll be able to provide an equally successful event."