Kings of Leon and Lewis Capaldi headline the opening night of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix After-Race Concerts on 3 December at Etihad Live, Yas Island.
Key Takeaways
- Kings of Leon will headline the opening night of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 concerts on 3 December.
- They replace Zara Larsson in the lineup and will perform songs from their ten-album catalogue at Yas Island.
- The entertainment programme features a variety of genres, including a performance by Andrea Bocelli on 2 December.
- Fans can expect high-energy live performances, including hits like ‘Sex on Fire’ and ‘Use Somebody.’
- Tickets are available through the official website at abudhabigp.com.
Kings of Leon are set to headline the opening night of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 after-race concerts on Thursday, 3 December. The American alternative rock band will perform at Etihad Live on Yas Island alongside Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi, marking the start of the Yasalam presented by etisalat entertainment programme.
Kings of Leon and Lewis Capaldi to kick off Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concerts
The Thursday night double-bill serves as the official launch of the 2026 After-Race Concerts. Kings of Leon, a multi-GRAMMY and BRIT Award-winning outfit, are expected to perform a set spanning their ten-album catalogue at the Etihad Live venue on Yas Island.
This performance follows a recent change to the line-up; the band has stepped in to replace Zara Larsson, who is no longer able to perform at the event. The timing of the Abu Dhabi show is particularly notable as it follows the release of the band’s tenth studio album, O My Beloved, which is scheduled for 6 November.
Full Yasalam 2026 After-Race Concert line-up
The entertainment programme extends throughout the Grand Prix weekend, offering a variety of genres across several nights. While the Thursday night features rock and pop, the rest of the schedule includes electronic, dance, and contemporary pop acts.
The complete schedule for the After-Race Concerts is as follows:
- Wednesday, 2 December: Andrea Bocelli, performing at the inaugural Yasalam Classics.
- Thursday, 3 December: Kings of Leon and Lewis Capaldi.
- Friday, 4 December: Alex Warren and Jennifer Lopez.
- Saturday, 5 December: Imagine Dragons.
- Sunday, 6 December: The Chainsmokers and The Script.
In addition to these headline sets, the Yasalam programme includes the Official After-Party on 4 December featuring Anyma presents ÆDEN, as well as performances by global DJs Black Coffee, CamelPhat, and Shimza at 16/360 over three days.
What to expect from Kings of Leon live
Known for their blend of Southern rock and blues influences, Kings of Leon have built a reputation for high-energy live performances. Their set in Abu Dhabi is expected to include staples such as “Sex on Fire” and “Use Somebody,” alongside newer material from their upcoming album.
The band’s history includes headlining major international festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella, and they are recognised for a live sound that often feels more intense and nuanced than their studio recordings. Given the scale of the Yas Island venue, fans can expect a production that utilises significant lighting and video displays to complement their instrumental-focused performances.
How to secure your tickets
Tickets for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the associated entertainment programmes can be secured through the official website at abudhabigp.com. Fans can also explore various upgrades to their race weekend experience through the same portal.
