Kings of Leon Replace Zara Larsson at Abu Dhabi F1 Concerts

The 2026 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concert line-up has a major change, with American rock band Kings of Leon replacing Swedish pop star Zara Larsson.

The Grammy-winning group will perform alongside Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi on Thursday, December 3, opening four nights of live entertainment on Yas Island.

The announcement adds a rock music highlight to the race weekend, which combines Formula 1 action with performances by international artists.

Kings of Leon Bring Their Biggest Hits to Abu Dhabi

Known for popular songs such as Sex on Fire and Use Somebody, Kings of Leon have built a global following through their energetic performances and arena-sized rock sound.

The band has earned multiple major music awards and appeared at renowned festivals, including Glastonbury and Coachella.

Their Abu Dhabi appearance gives fans an opportunity to hear some of their best-known tracks during one of the UAE capital’s biggest annual sporting and entertainment events.

Zara Larsson No Longer Part of Opening Night

Larsson had previously been announced as one of the opening-night performers but will no longer appear at the event.

Organisers have not publicly disclosed the reason for the change.

Her replacement brings a different musical style to the programme, pairing Kings of Leon’s alternative rock sound with Capaldi’s emotional ballads.

The revised line-up is expected to appeal to fans of different genres as the Grand Prix prepares for its December return.

Jennifer Lopez, Imagine Dragons and More to Perform

The wider Yasalam entertainment programme features several international names across the race weekend.

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Warren are scheduled for Friday, December 4, followed by Imagine Dragons on Saturday, December 5.

The Chainsmokers and The Script will close the after-race concert series on Sunday, December 6.

Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli is also set to perform on December 2 as part of the new Yasalam Classics programme.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Returns in December

The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place at Yas Marina Circuit from December 3 to 6, 2026.

The event attracts motorsport fans as well as visitors interested in its concerts and wider entertainment offerings.

Access to the after-race performances is available through eligible Grand Prix ticket packages, with upgrade options also offered.

The latest line-up change adds further anticipation ahead of the season-ending race weekend.