Andrea Bocelli has been announced as the first headline artist for Yasalam Classics, a new concert series debuting during Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix week in 2026.
The world-renowned Italian tenor will perform at the Etihad Arena on 2 December, adding a classical music showcase to the Grand Prix’s extensive entertainment programme.
Andrea Bocelli confirmed for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix week
The performance will take place on Yas Island and forms part of the newly launched Yasalam Classics series, which expands the entertainment offering surrounding one of the Middle East’s biggest sporting events.
Joining Bocelli on stage will be the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, known internationally for its acclaimed classical performances.
The concert will open what is expected to be a packed week of events leading up to the Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Yasalam Classics adds a new dimension to race week
For years, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has attracted major names from the worlds of pop, rock and electronic music through its Yasalam After-Race Concerts programme.
The introduction of Yasalam Classics signals a broader entertainment strategy, bringing world-class classical and crossover performances to race week audiences.
David Powell, Chief Portfolio and Strategy Officer at Ethara, said:
“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.”
Celebrating 30 years of Romanza
The Abu Dhabi concert arrives during a landmark period in Bocelli’s career.
2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Romanza, the breakthrough record that established him as a global star. The album remains the best-selling Italian-language album of all time and introduced millions of listeners to Bocelli’s distinctive blend of classical and contemporary music.
Across a career spanning more than three decades, Andrea Bocelli has sold more than 90 million records worldwide and performed at some of the world’s most prestigious events, including the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup.
Fans attending the Abu Dhabi performance can expect a setlist featuring some of his most celebrated songs, including Con te partirò, commonly known as Time To Say Goodbye, alongside Canto della Terra and Ave Maria.
More Grand Prix artists already announced
Bocelli joins an entertainment programme that already includes performances from Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson and Imagine Dragons.
Organisers are expected to reveal additional artists in the coming months as anticipation builds for the 2026 Formula 1 finale.
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