The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 just turned up the volume. Legendary heavy metal band Metallica has been confirmed as the third headliner for this year’s Yasalam after-race concert series. The band will hit the stage at Etihad Park on Saturday, December 6, following the final day of F1 qualifiers.
View this post on Instagram
Metallica’s addition to the lineup brings serious rock energy to the weekend. Formed in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, the group now also includes Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo, and has built a four-decade legacy as one of the most influential rock acts worldwide.
They’ve sold nearly 125 million albums and released a long list of genre-defining tracks, including “Nothing Else Matters,” “Enter Sandman,” and “Master of Puppets.” The Saturday show is part of the Yasalam after-race concert series, which is exclusive to Grand Prix ticket holders.
Metallica is the third act confirmed so far, joining Benson Boone, who opens the weekend on Thursday, December 5, and Katy Perry, who headlines Sunday, December 7 after the final race. That leaves Friday’s artist still to be revealed — and speculation is building.
The after-race concerts remain a major part of the Abu Dhabi F1 experience, drawing big international names and adding a festival feel to race weekend. With Metallica now on the bill, that first Saturday of December 2025 is shaping up to be a much-awaited day for both F1 and music fans.
