Andrea Bocelli to Perform at Inaugural Yasalam Classics During Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Week
World-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will headline the inaugural edition of Yasalam Classics, a newly introduced concert series forming part of the entertainment programme during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 race week.
The celebrated artist will perform at Etihad Arena on Yas Island on Wednesday, 2 December 2026, bringing his acclaimed Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour to Abu Dhabi in what promises to be one of the standout cultural events of the season.
Bocelli will be joined by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, internationally recognised for its expressive performances and orchestral excellence.
The launch of Yasalam Classics marks a significant expansion of the Yasalam presented by e& entertainment programme, which traditionally features major international artists through its After-Race Concerts and Official After-Parties.
Produced by Ethara in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, the initiative introduces classical and crossover music to the Grand Prix entertainment lineup for the first time, broadening the event’s appeal across diverse audiences and generations.
This year’s Grand Prix entertainment schedule already includes performances by Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson, and Imagine Dragons, with additional artists expected to be announced in the coming months.
Andrea Bocelli remains one of the world’s most influential classical crossover artists, with a career spanning more than three decades. Known for globally celebrated works including Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye), Canto della Terra, and Ave Maria, Bocelli has sold over 90 million records worldwide and performed at internationally recognised events including the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup.
The Abu Dhabi performance also commemorates the 30th anniversary of Romanza, the landmark album that propelled Bocelli to global recognition. Released in 1997, the album achieved platinum and diamond certifications in more than 20 countries, becoming the best-selling Italian-language album and the highest-selling predominantly non-English language album globally.
Commenting on the announcement, David Powell, Chief Portfolio and Strategy Officer at Ethara, said:
“Yasalam Classics is a significant addition to the star-studded Abu Dhabi Grand Prix entertainment programme, and Andrea Bocelli is the ideal artist to launch it. His performance introduces a new dimension to race week and reflects our ambition to deliver one of the region’s most exciting entertainment experiences.”
Pre-sale tickets will be available exclusively to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders for 24 hours, while general ticket sales open at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, 17 June 2026.
