Formula 1 is officially set to return to Abu Dhabi for the 2026 season finale. The Yas Marina Circuit will once again close out the championship in style, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix taking place from December 4 to 6, 2026.
Before the final lap in the UAE capital, however, all eyes will be on the build-up happening across Spain and Bahrain.
The 2026 F1 season begins with testing sessions that set the pace for the year. Here are their dates and locations:
- January 26–30: Private test at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain
- February 11–13: Official session at Bahrain International Circuit
- February 18–20: Second official Bahrain session
These early dates are crucial as teams fine-tune their new cars and gather vital performance data before heading into the competition. After that, the 2026 Formula 1 season launches in Australia from March 6 to 8, kicking off a global tour across five continents.
In December, Yas Marina will once again host an unforgettable mix of world-class racing and entertainment, with the sport’s biggest names and fans flying in from around the world.
And don’t forget about post-race concerts! If 2025’s line-up is anything to go by — Metallica, Katy Perry, Elyanna, and Post Malone — the 2026 edition promises another epic celebration. Stay tuned for more details!
Planning to attend this big event for the first time? Make sure to check out our First Timer’s Guide to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with practical tips on how to get around, where to stay, and what to do beyond the track.
