Today's Edition
KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)
When the roar of engines fills the air on Yas Island this week, it won't just signal the start of another race; it will mark a new chapter in Abu Dhabi's ascent as a global hub for motorsport and tourism.
Hosting both the FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) finale on Wednesday, 4 December, and the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday, 8 December, Yas Island is positioning itself as an unparalleled destination for high-octane entertainment.
"Yas Island is setting new standards for global motorsport and tourism," Ali Al Beshr, Executive Director of Motorsport Development, told Aletihad.
"These two world-class events highlight the island's ability to attract global audiences, with fans traveling from across the world to experience the thrill of back-to-back championships."
The WSX finale, a headline event in the supercross calendar, is an off-road motorcycle racing sport featuring steep jumps and sharp turns on purpose-built tracks. According to Al Beshr, hosting the finale underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to not just participating in global motorsport, but to leading it.
"Hosting the WSX finale is a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi and the UAE," Mr. Al Beshr noted.
"The shift from hosting the championship's first Middle Eastern round to now hosting its finale demonstrates the confidence that global organisations like WSX have in Abu Dhabi's capabilities."
Al Beshr believes the Etihad Arena, known for hosting global events like the NBA and UFC, provides an ideal backdrop for the WSX finale. Tom Burwell, CEO of the World Supercross Championship, praised the venue's state-of-the-art facilities and electrifying atmosphere.
"Etihad Arena embodies everything WSX stands for: innovation, excitement, and global appeal," he told Aletihad.
"Its location on Yas Island, a hub for entertainment and sports, is perfectly aligned with the spectacle of supercross."
This year's WSX finale promises an elevated experience for fans and riders alike with high-stakes races, stunts, meet-and-greets with the world's best riders, and immersive entertainment.
"Fans can expect edge-of-your-seat action that pushes the riders to their limits," Burwell said.
Burwell believes Yas Island's appeal as a tourist destination will help events attract international guests. Premium packages for the WSX finale combine supercross with access to attractions on the island.
Al Beshr adds, "By providing fans with an unforgettable experience that combines motorsport, live entertainment and cultural attractions, Yas Island solidifies its position as a global hub for motorsport and a leader in sports tourism."
The convergence of the WSX finale and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is not just a scheduling coincidence, but a strategic move to showcase the UAE's burgeoning influence in the global motorsport industry.
"This week-long motorsport extravaganza showcases Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art venues while leveraging Yas Island's extensive offerings," Al Beshr said.
"It reflects Abu Dhabi's vision to continue their position as a premier destination for entertainment, sport and cultural experiences."
Comparing the Abu Dhabi stop to other WSX locations like Vancouver and Perth, Burwell raved about the unique energy that the UAE brings to the championship.
"Each WSX stop has its own character, but Abu Dhabi offers something truly special," he said.
"As a global hub, the city brings together fans and cultures from all corners of the world, creating a unique sense of unity and excitement."
