The eyes of the world turned to Abu Dhabi as it served as a global motorsports cliff-hanger venue, with Yas Marina Circuit welcoming hundreds of thousands of fans, celebrities and live sports die-hards to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 2023 Formula 1 season. The city effervesced with energy, as colorful crowds arrived from as far as Argentina, Mexico, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, not to mention a roster of celebrities who were on hand to lend star power to the event. There were plenty of notable attendees, including the likes of US talk show host Steve football’s iconic Brooklyn Beckham, and Spanish football star Gerard Pique. The event was a testament to Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier global hub for world-class entertainment and sports.
In the midst of this glamorous atmosphere, reigning 2024 F1 champion Max Verstappen triumphed once again, earning admiration for his prowess on the track. The electric ambiance was palpable, with fans enthusiastically cheering for their favorite drivers, including the Dutch champion. Cole, a South African resident who has lived in Abu Dhabi for years, shared with Aletihad how his friend Sam traveled from Holland specifically to support “the Flying Dutchman,” highlighting the race’s widespread appeal and dedication from international fans.
The is that this staged a classic race which was not completely about speed and another new thing.Far from it, as you can glimpse from the photographs of those fans tripping over themselves to get their pictures taken with drivers on Saturday evening outside each of two main grandstands looking down at Yas Marina Circuit (the F1 track), this was in fact a massive social event.The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit has become more than just a sporting event. It is an iconic gathering of the city’s vision of being a global leader in entertainment, innovation and culture. From breathtaking views of the shimmering waters to the unique architectural design of the circuit itself, the race underscored Abu Dhabi’s commitment to excellence. The weekend’s festivities not only celebrated Max Verstappen’s victory but also reinforced Abu Dhabi’s status as a prime destination for world-class sporting events, proving once more that it is a city that captivates on and off the track.
