UPDATE: In a groundbreaking announcement, Abu Dhabi will host the opening event of the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series on March 28, 2026, marking the first time this prestigious competition takes place in the Middle East. The event will unfold at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, showcasing the emirate’s growing prominence in the esports and motorsport arenas.
This urgent news broke during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals held in Fukuoka, Japan, where H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), delivered the announcement. The event is poised to attract elite Gran Turismo drivers from around the globe, engaging a massive audience and highlighting Abu Dhabi’s capabilities as a burgeoning esports hub.
The Gran Turismo World Series is an annual competition designed to determine the world’s top Gran Turismo player, featuring both online qualifiers and live events that attract competitors to iconic locations worldwide. Kazunori Yamauchi, producer of the Gran Turismo series, expressed excitement over the announcement, stating, “This is a historic milestone for our championship and a testament to the region’s growing presence in global motorsport and esports.”
The inclusion of Yas Marina Circuit in the Gran Turismo 7 game further enriches Abu Dhabi’s motorsport legacy, giving players worldwide the chance to experience the thrill of racing on this world-class track. This dual exposure in both physical and digital realms creates new opportunities for audiences to connect with Abu Dhabi’s culture of competitive excellence.
H.E. Al Fazari emphasized the significance of this event, noting that it reflects Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be a limitless destination for innovation and entertainment. “This marks a significant milestone for our esports and motorsport sectors, showcasing our ability to deliver world-leading experiences,” he stated.
The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 is organized by Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Gaming, an initiative led by DCT Abu Dhabi aimed at transforming the emirate into a global gaming hub.
As anticipation builds for this landmark event, it is clear that Abu Dhabi is positioning itself at the forefront of the global esports conversation, creating pathways for talent and partnerships that will accelerate business development across the region.
For more information on tickets and details for the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Opener in Abu Dhabi, visit Ticketmaster. Stay updated on Abu Dhabi Gaming by following them on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch.
This thrilling development is expected to resonate with both motorsport enthusiasts and the gaming community, making Abu Dhabi a focal point for global esports in the coming years.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic event as plans unfold for what promises to be an exhilarating experience in the world of competitive racing.
