Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been named Promoter of the Year at the 2025 Formula 1 Promoter Awards, following a landmark season finale at Yas Marina Circuit that saw a record 339,000 fans witness a historic three-way title fight going down to the wire.
At a ceremony held in London, Saif Al Noaimi, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethara, accepted the award which recognises the event’s consistent efforts to evolve the fan experience and maintain its status as a premier global sporting destination. The 2025 edition was noted for its blend of high-stakes racing and a heavy-hitting entertainment lineup featuring Katy Perry, Post Malone and Benson Boone.
Beyond the music and the track action, the organisers were praised for introducing new hospitality concepts and innovative onsite activations that kept the massive crowds engaged over the four-day weekend. For Ethara, the accolade serves as validation of a long-term strategy to push the boundaries of what a race weekend can offer.
"We are proud to be recognised as Promoter of the Year in such a competitive field of promoters," Al Noaimi said. "This award is a testament to the strength of the Ethara team, who are delivering our vision to become a regional powerhouse in live entertainment. We will continue to pioneer the delivery of unforgettable experiences for the fans from around the world."
The London awards brought together representatives from all 24 races on the calendar, celebrating excellence in categories ranging from sustainability to cultural identity. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, noted that the work of the promoters remains the heartbeat of the sport’s recent global surge in popularity.
"2025 was another incredible year from start to finish for Formula 1, and at the heart of this success were our 24 promoters, who worked tirelessly to deliver the ultimate race weekend experience for our fans," Domenicali said. "As the sport enters its next generation in 2026, we have a responsibility to continue breaking barriers and setting a high standard for others to follow."
While Abu Dhabi took the top honour, other regional and international races were also recognised for their specific contributions to the 2025 season, including the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the return of the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.
Other four award-winners
Event Spectacle: Saudi Arabian Grand Prix – Recognised for its drone and firework displays and headline sets from Usher and Jennifer Lopez.
Fan Experience: Hungarian GP – Awarded for its major grandstand and paddock upgrades and highly rated spectator services.
ESG Changemaker: Japanese GP – Commended for reaching 64% low–carbon spectator travel and achieving zero waste to landfill sites.
Outstanding Cultural Identity: Chinese GP – Honoured for its downtown festival and the integration of local heritage throughout the Shanghai venue.
