The Grand Finale of the 2025 Formula 1 (F1) World Championship was held recently at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, marking the climactic conclusion of the racing season. Spanning four days from December 5 to 8, 2024, the event brought together high-octane motorsport and star-studded glamour, captivating fans from around the globe.
On December 8, the much-anticipated final race took place, drawing not only racing enthusiasts but also Bollywood celebrities Shraddha Kapoor and Disha Patani. These stars shared the spotlight with international luminaries such as Brad Pitt, Laurinda Ho, Adriana Lima, Brooklyn Beckham, and Nicola Peltz Beckham. The attraction of the Abu Dhabi finale was undeniably heightened by the presence of such high-profile figures.
Kapoor, known for her dynamic roles, took the opportunity to explore the cultural riches of Abu Dhabi, visiting the renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi prior to the big race. Disha Patani joined her fellow celebrities, adding to the glitzy atmosphere at the Yas Marina Circuit, which has become synonymous with memorable F1 events.
The F1 finale is not just about racing; it's a festival of speed and spectacle. The framework of the event included three practice sessions on December 6 and 7, allowing drivers to fine-tune their strategies and machines. This lead-up culminated in the qualifying race on December 7, determining the grid positions for the decisive showdown.
Fans were treated to the thrill of 58 laps around the 5.281 km circuit where legendary teams such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Aston Martin battled for the championship title. Each lap brought the audience closer to the excitement of the season's climactic conclusions.
Adding to the grandeur of the weekend, the Grand Finale featured post-race entertainment from iconic musical acts. After the roaring engines fell silent, Maroon 5, Muse, and Eminem took to the stage, entertaining fans and attendees with electrifying performances. This entertainment lineup provided a memorable end to the prestigious racing event, ensuring attendees left with more than just racing highlights.
Notably, the event also marked the rebranding of the Red Bull-owned Formula One team, which will compete as Racing Bulls next season. This change from the previously cumbersome name of Visa Cash App RB reflects the team's evolution and aims to clarify their identity within the sport. Team chief executive Peter Bayer acknowledged the previous confusion surrounding the team name, saying, “We’ve been struggling to a certain extent with making it clear to people what the team name is, and seen so many versions.”
The Yas Marina Circuit set the scene for thrilling competition and illustrious celebrity appearances, combining the allure of high-speed racing with the glamour of global stardom. This race wasn’t just the end of the F1 season; it was a chapter filled with emotions, excitement, and unforgettable moments fused with the luster of Hollywood.
Looking forward, the anticipation builds for the 2026 season, where new challenges and thrilling races await on the F1 calendar, maintaining the global sport's esteemed reputation.