The organizers of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix have announced the first musical performers for the 2026 event. British singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi and Swedish pop star Zara Larsson will serve as the headline opening acts for the race weekend at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The announcement was made by event officials as part of the long-term planning for the prestigious season finale. The 2026 race is scheduled to take place in December of that year, maintaining its traditional slot as the final event of the Formula 1 World Championship season.
Expanding the Grand Prix Experience
This booking continues a established trend of integrating major international music performances with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. The strategy aims to enhance the event’s appeal as a destination experience, attracting both dedicated motorsport fans and concertgoers.
Past editions have featured artists such as Guns N’ Roses, Kendrick Lamar, and Muse. The inclusion of Capaldi and Larsson represents a focus on contemporary chart-topping pop music for the 2026 programming.
Artist Profiles and Anticipated Performances
Lewis Capaldi is known for his emotionally resonant ballads, including the global hit “Someone You Loved.” His powerful vocals and relatable songwriting have earned him a massive international following.
Zara Larsson has achieved widespread success with energetic pop anthems like “Lush Life” and “Never Forget You.” Her dynamic stage presence and catalog of danceable tracks are expected to provide a high-energy counterpoint to the weekend’s events.
Specific set times and the exact day of their performances within the race weekend have not yet been disclosed. Officials stated that further details regarding the full entertainment schedule will be released closer to the event.
Logistics and Global Audience
The concerts will be held on the dedicated Concert stage within the Yas Marina Circuit grounds. Access is typically included for holders of certain race weekend tickets, with separate concert-only passes also made available for purchase in the past.
The announcement has generated significant discussion on social media and entertainment news platforms globally. It underscores the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s position as more than a sporting event, functioning as a large-scale entertainment festival.
With the announcement made nearly two years in advance, organizers have set a clear expectation for the scale of the 2026 event. Further announcements regarding additional supporting acts, ticket sale dates, and detailed race weekend schedules are expected to follow in the coming months, leading up to the December 2026 event.
Source: Mashable
