The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to return to the stunning Yas Marina Circuit on 4th-6th December as part of a four-day festival of motorsport and entertainment on Yas Island, with the Yasalam festival uniting international F1® fans with some of the biggest names on the planet.

Formula 1® is set to make a return to the UAE’s glittering capital this December to stage a hugely anticipated Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Organisers are gearing up to present the paddock, local residents and visitors from around the world with an even more enhanced race programme in a fitting finale to the 2026 Formula One World Championship™ season at the glittering Yas Marina Circuit on 4th-6th December.

The finale on the glittering backdrops of the Gulf will form part of a four-day Festival of Motorsport and Entertainment, which also features the hugely popular Yasalam entertainment festival.

A Bruising Debut for Cadillac

The race will also mark the last gasp of opportunity for Cadillac to avoid a blank rookie season in F1. Cadillac have endured a torrid introduction to life in Formula 1 this season.

The American outfit have failed to score a point in 17 grands prix, and while things have been tough, at times positively grim for the team this season, veteran Finn, Valtteri Bottas believes progress is being made behind the scenes.

Struggling from the off and showing ever-increasing signs of strain, a change of Team Principal came after just 11 races and there have been a bevy of DNFs along the way.

Currently rooted to the foot of the Championship table, Cadillac have at best started 16th on the grid, and at best crossed the chequered flag in P13.

Abu Dhabi will be their last opportunity of adding a scrap of silverware to the cabinet before they head home after a heart-stopping rookie campaign.

Finding the Silver Lining

Speaking last week, 37-year-old Finn Valtteri Bottas, who has plenty of silver linings to point to in his career, was keen to stress the strides the team is making despite there being nothing tangible to show for it:

Abu Dhabi will represent Cadillac’s final opportunity to leave Formula 1’s 2026 season finale with at least a point as its rookie season draws to a close.

Written by

Lakshya