Lewis Capaldi and Zara Larsson to headline Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 opening night

International music stars Lewis Capaldi and Zara Larsson have been announced as the first performers for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026, with both artists set to take to the stage on Thursday, 3 December at Etihad Park as part of the much-loved Yasalam entertainment programme.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the celebrated final race of the Formula 1 season, will take place from 3 to 6 December at Yas Marina Circuit. Following record demand during the pre-sale period, tickets are now on public sale, with limited availability remaining across multiple categories as fans begin locking in plans for one of the capital’s biggest sporting weekends of the year.

Lewis Capaldi will make a highly anticipated return to Abu Dhabi, bringing his emotionally charged live show back to the UAE capital following a standout year that marked his return to touring. Known for heartfelt anthems such as Someone You Loved and Before You Go, Capaldi’s performances balance raw vulnerability with humour and crowd connection, making him a natural fit for the Grand Prix opening night atmosphere.

Joining him on the opening night line-up is Zara Larsson, who arrives in Abu Dhabi following a breakout year that saw her latest album Midnight Sun gain international attention. With a catalogue of pop favourites including Lush Life and Never Forget You, Larsson’s high-energy set is set to bring a vibrant contrast to the evening, kicking off the Yasalam concert series in signature style.

The After-Race Concerts form part of the Yasalam entertainment programme and are exclusive to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket-holders, with the option to upgrade to Golden Circle for guaranteed access and closer proximity to the stage at Etihad Park. Alongside the on-track action, race-goers can also make the most of complimentary access to several of Abu Dhabi’s cultural and leisure attractions during race week, extending the Grand Prix experience beyond the circuit and into the city.

Following a record-breaking 339,000 attendees at the 2025 edition, organisers have confirmed that early demand for 2026 tickets has been strong, reflecting the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s growing reputation as one of the most anticipated finales on the Formula 1 calendar. With a new era of technical regulations set to shake up the competitive order this season, the championship fight is expected to go down to the wire, adding another layer of intrigue to the race weekend.

Tickets for the 2026 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix are now on sale, with limited availability remaining.

Full event details and ticket options, including Golden Circle upgrades for the After-Race Concerts featuring Lewis Capaldi and Zara Larsson, are available via the official Abu Dhabi Grand Prix website at abudhabigp.com.