The season finale is getting a second race. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will feature a Formula 1 Sprint for the first time in 2027, organiser Ethara has confirmed following the release of the 2027 F1 calendar, with Yas Marina Circuit keeping the final round from December 9 to 12, Dubai Standard reports.

Yas Marina will be one of 10 circuits hosting a Sprint in 2027. The Sprint itself runs on Saturday over roughly 100km, takes about 30 minutes, has no mandatory pit stops, and pays eight championship points to the winner.

How the 2027 weekend format changes

The Sprint reshapes the whole weekend. Sprint qualifying replaces the second free practice session on Friday, the Sprint replaces third practice on Saturday, and traditional Grand Prix qualifying moves to later on Saturday to set Sunday’s grid. For fans, it means competitive sessions on all three days instead of a practice-heavy Friday.

F1 pit lane and grandstands at Yas Marina Circuit
Sprint qualifying replaces Friday’s second practice session under the new format.

First, the 2026 race on December 3 to 6

Before the Sprint era arrives, this year’s 18th Abu Dhabi Grand Prix runs from December 3 to 6, 2026, in the traditional format: the official 2026 Sprint calendar does not include Abu Dhabi. Organisers say only limited tickets remain for 2026, and pre-registration is open for 2027 ticket updates. The 2025 race drew a record 339,000 spectators.

What ticket holders get beyond the track

Grand Prix ticket holders also receive access to a spread of Yas Island and Abu Dhabi attractions, including Ferrari World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan, which turns race weekend into a fuller holiday. Build the trip with our Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai guide, places to visit in Dubai for before or after, and best time to visit for December weather.

Yas Island Abu Dhabi marina and hotels at dusk
The 2026 race comes first, on December 3 to 6, with limited tickets reported remaining.

FAQs

When is Abu Dhabi’s first F1 Sprint?

At the 2027 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which runs December 9 to 12 at Yas Marina Circuit. The Sprint takes place on the Saturday.

How does an F1 Sprint work?

It is a short race of about 100km lasting roughly 30 minutes, with no mandatory pit stops. The winner earns eight championship points.

Is there a Sprint at the 2026 Abu Dhabi GP?

No. The 2026 race, on December 3 to 6, uses the traditional format. Abu Dhabi is not on the 2026 Sprint calendar.

Can I buy 2027 tickets now?

Organisers are taking pre-registrations for 2027 ticket updates, and say limited tickets remain for the 2026 race.