Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (Abu Dhabi)
F1 frenzy went into high gear as thousands thronged Yas Marina Circuit on Thursday for the much-awaited Pit Lane Walk, getting a first look at the teams revving up for the season’s final race.
Crowds streamed along the pit lane, mobile cameras flashing as they captured mechanics fine-tuning machines and crews running last-minute checks. A lucky few even caught glimpses of F1 drivers — a perfect way to kick off the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (ADGP) 2025 weekend.
The ADGP draws spectators from across the globe every year. After welcoming 192,000 over four days in 2024, the 2025 edition is expected to surpass that record, with guests arriving from more than 100 countries.
F1 fan Nora Jo flew roughly 14 hours from Montreal, Canada, but it was a trip that “felt like nothing” as adrenaline and excitement powered her up.
Watching the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix had been on her bucket list, she told Aletihad, and now she’s soaking up every second from the moment the gates opened.
“I have been planning this trip since March, and I could not have been more excited when I found out that the title fight is coming to Abu Dhabi,” Jo said as she explored the Yas Marina Circuit Fan Zone.
“The weekend has been very fun so far. Everything is well prepared and organised. I cannot wait for more exciting action through the race weekend.”
Marcin Koprowski from Poland chose to celebrate his 40th birthday at ADGP. His birthday wish? To witness some “racing drama” during the finale on Sunday.
“It is my first time in Abu Dhabi, it is very exciting to witness the closing chapter of this season and see who will win,” Koprowski told Aletihad as he headed for the Pit Lane Walk.
This year’s race is not only the season finale but also the championship decider, with three drivers, Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri, vying for the title.
The thrill isn’t limited to adults — young spectators are swept up in the excitement, too. Children wearing team colours were also at the site on opening day, just as eager to see their racing heroes in action at Yas Marina Circuit.
For 13-year-old Ollie Mars from Wales who has been living in Abu Dhabi since March, the ADGP would be the highlight of the year.
“It is so exciting, I am very happy I am here. It has been very fun, especially when I tried ‘racing’ through the simulator,” Mars told Aletihad.
He is looking forward to seeing Norris, his favourite driver, on the track. “I cannot wait to see him win on Sunday!” he said.
Beyond the ultra-fast cars battling it out in the season-ending showdown, the ADGP brings an off-track spectacle that is just as popular, the Yasalam After-Race Concerts. This year, Benson Boone, Post Malone, Elyanna, Metallica, and Katy Perry are all set to deliver high-octane performances.
Lina Shorbaji from Lebanon, who is enjoying the annual race and shows for the second time, noticed that “the concerts and entertainment are getting better every year”.
There is something to do and enjoy every day during the race weekend, she told Aletihad. “I enjoy connecting with other F1 fans and sharing our excitement and experience together,” Shorbaji added.
