Abu Dhabi to Host First Middle East Gran Turismo World Series Opener

Abu Dhabi will host the opening round of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 on March 28th, 2026, marking the first time the season opener is held in the Middle East. The live event, titled Round 1 Abu Dhabi, will take place at Space42 Arena, located near the Yas Marina Circuit in the United Arab Emirates capital. “Hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi and the wider MENA region, reflecting our ambition to be a destination where possibilities are limitless," Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, said. "It marks a significant milestone for our esports and motorsport sectors, bringing elite global competition to the emirate and showcasing Abu Dhabi’s proven capability to deliver world-leading esports and motorsport experiences. Abu Dhabi continues to offer a secure, future-ready environment for businesses, investors and talent, supporting our vision to become a global hub for innovation, entertainment, gaming and motorsport.” Round 1 will bring together 24 competitors across the championship’s headline formats, featuring the top 12 Nations Cup drivers alongside 12 Manufacturers Cup drivers at Space42 Arena. The Abu Dhabi event will open the competitive calendar for the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series, setting the field for the remaining live rounds and the season’s conclusion later in the year.