Ethara Wins F1 Promoter of the Year for Abu Dhabi GP

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 29 January 2026:

Ethara, the official promoter of the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has been awarded the prestigious Promoter of the Year at the annual Formula 1 Promoter Awards held in London on 28 January 2026. The honour recognises Ethara’s outstanding delivery of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, widely regarded as one of the most successful and immersive events on the Formula 1 calendar.

The Promoter of the Year award is determined by Formula One Management and is presented to the promoter that delivers the most comprehensive, innovative, and fan-centric race weekend, aligning with Formula 1’s vision of creating the world’s premier live entertainment spectacle.

Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, Chief Executive Officer of Ethara, said the award reflects the dedication and ambition of the organisation’s team. “We are honoured to be recognised in such a competitive field of global promoters. This achievement highlights the strength and creativity of the Ethara team as we continue to build our vision of becoming a leading regional live entertainment powerhouse. We remain committed to pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide.”

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the efforts of all promoters during the 2025 season, noting the crucial role they play in the sport’s global success. “2025 was an exceptional year for Formula 1, and our promoters were at the heart of this success, working tirelessly to deliver world-class race weekends. As we enter the next generation of the sport in 2026, we must continue setting new standards and breaking barriers. Congratulations to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and all award winners and nominees.”

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a landmark event, featuring a dramatic three-way battle for the Drivers’ World Championship, with Lando Norris securing his first F1 title. The event attracted a record 339,000 fans over four days, including 203,000 spectators at Yas Marina Circuit and 136,000 attendees at Emirates NBD After-Race Concerts and Yasalam Official After-Parties, showcasing eight headline global artists.

Fan engagement was expanded through innovative experiences, including two public pitlane walks, newly introduced FAB Track Walks, and an exclusive Podium Party that allowed fans to celebrate directly on the circuit, creating a memorable season-finale atmosphere.

This latest recognition follows the event’s 2024 Best Event Spectacle Award, which celebrated the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for its exceptional off-track entertainment and immersive fan experiences.

Since its inaugural race in 2009, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has evolved into the Middle East’s largest entertainment weekend, blending elite motorsport with large-scale cultural and entertainment programming, attracting global visitors and millions of television viewers annually.

The 18th edition of the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from 3 to 6 December 2026, once again serving as the season finale of the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship.