The Italian tenor will headline the debut of Yasalam Classics at Etihad Arena on 2 December.
Formula 1 fans heading to Abu Dhabi this December can add a world-renowned tenor to their race week plans.
Andrea Bocelli has been confirmed as the first artist for Yasalam Classics, a new addition to the entertainment programme surrounding the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026.
The Italian music icon will perform at Etihad Arena on Yas Island on 2 December, opening what is expected to be one of the biggest weeks on Abu Dhabi’s entertainment calendar.
Joining him on stage will be the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, known for its acclaimed performances around the world.
The concert forms part of the newly launched Yasalam Classics series, which has been introduced alongside the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s established entertainment offerings, including the popular After-Race Concerts and Official After-Parties.
For many years, race week has attracted some of the biggest names in pop, rock and electronic music. The introduction of Yasalam Classics brings a different sound to the programme and aims to appeal to a wider audience.
Bocelli is one of the most successful classical crossover artists of all time. Across a career spanning more than three decades, he has sold more than 90 million records and performed at major global events including the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
Fans can expect to hear some of his most recognisable works, including Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye), Canto della Terra and Ave Maria.
The performance also arrives during a milestone year for the singer. 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Romanza, the album that transformed Bocelli into a global star and remains the best-selling Italian-language album ever released.
David Powell, chief portfolio and strategy officer at Ethara, described the new concert series as an important addition to race week.
“Andrea Bocelli is the perfect artist to launch Yasalam Classics. His performance will bring a different dimension to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix entertainment programme.”
Bocelli joins an entertainment line-up that already includes Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson and Imagine Dragons, with additional artists expected to be announced ahead of race weekend.
Tickets are on sale now and are available from Ticketmaster UAE and Etihad Arena.
Discover: Andrea Bocelli to perform during F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix week. @etihadarena.ae @abudhabigp @yasalam @yasisland.
