Organisers confirm that the season finale is still on
After months of uncertainty around major events in the region, the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to return to Yas Marina Circuit this December.
There were plenty of questions about whether Formula 1’s finale would go ahead this year, particularly after regional tensions led to the cancellation or postponement of a number of major events and concerts across the Middle East.
But for F1 fans, there is good news: the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains on the 2026 calendar, with the season finale scheduled for 3–6 December at Yas Marina Circuit.
Formula One President and CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed the good news, saying: “The calendar is confirmed. There are still a few tickets to be sold in Abu Dhabi… and we stay focused on delivering the calendar we promised at the beginning of the year. Everything is progressing very, very well.”
His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said in a statement: “Hosting Formula 1 since 2009 has been a testament to our ambition to bring the world together through exceptional experiences and major international events. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix creates meaningful opportunities for our tourism, hospitality and events sectors and we are proud to build on this long-standing partnership. We look forward to welcoming international F1 fans once again for the conclusion of a thrilling season.”
Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, also commented: “As promoter of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, our focus is firmly on delivering another outstanding season finale this December. Building on our recognition as Formula 1’s Promoter of the Year, we are working closely with Formula 1 and our partners across Abu Dhabi to deliver an exceptional experience for fans, teams, drivers, officials and partners. Preparations are progressing across every aspect of the event, and we look forward to welcoming the Formula 1 community back to Abu Dhabi.”
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The uncertainty wasn’t entirely surprising. Earlier in the year, F1 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled amid the regional conflict, while other major sporting and entertainment events across the region were also affected.
That inevitably raised questions about whether Abu Dhabi’s headline motorsport weekend could face similar disruption.
However, Abu Dhabi organisers have been clear that preparations are continuing as planned.
Ethara previously confirmed that the race would remain in its scheduled December slot, with organisers pointing to existing commitments with teams, performers, suppliers and fans.
And it’s not just about the racing. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become one of the UAE’s biggest entertainment weekends, bringing together high-speed action, hospitality, nightlife and the much-loved Yasalam after-race concerts.
This year’s entertainment line-up already includes Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson and Imagine Dragons, adding plenty of star power to the race weekend.
For now, the message is simple: Abu Dhabi is still set to have its big F1 moment. And after a year of uncertainty for major events across the region, that is certainly something worth celebrating.
For further information, visit abudhabigp.com
