I know you’ve had ‘Beautiful Things‘ on repeat, since the day it went viral (me too!), and now you have the chance to sing it on the top of your lungs! Gen Z heart-throb, Benson Boone, has officially been announced as the second headliner for the Yasalam After-Race Concerts – and he’s ready to bring his rockstar energy to Etihad Park on night 1. I mean could there be a more legendary way to kick start the F1 weekend? I have all the awesome details you want to know, so come with me to find out more.
Also read: Not A Drill! Katy Perry To Perform At The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix This December!
From American Idol To Abu Dhabi
Here’s a fun fact for you. Benson’s journey started with a standout audition on American Idol Season 19, where Katy Perry herself gave him a big yes! While he chose to step away early to figure out his artistic direction it clearly paid off. Because now, he’s sharing the spotlight with Katy once again! I mean talk about hard work, resilience and really being dedicated to your craft. Knowing when to stay away is not easy, but look where it’s gotten Benson Boon? And if you even caught a glimpse at his performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, you know he’s the real deal. And now, he’s bringing that same electric energy to the UAE’s biggest weekend!

Expect All The Feels (And Maybe A Backflip)
From soulful ballads like ‘Slow It Down‘ to infectious hits like ‘In The Stars‘ and ‘Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else‘, Benson’s live set promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions – topped with jazzy outfits, smooth dance moves, and maybe even a few surprises (maybe a backflip or two, and I think we’re all hoping he makes a pitstop at the piano!).
More Big Names Still To Come
So far, we’ve got Benson Boone to open and Katy Perry to close… but there’s obviously more to come. Two more major artists are still set to be announced! If the current line-up is anything to go by, we’re in for an EPIC weekend. In previous years, the stage has seen everyone from Eminem and Maroon 5 to Chris Brown and even Rihanna. So yes, the bar is VERY high.

Get Your Hands On These Hot, Hot Tickets
Want in? Concert access is exclusive to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders, but if you want to be right up front, Golden Circle upgrades are already on sale. These give you prime views and a spot closest to the stage – it’s the best way to fully soak in the live magic. Grab yours before they sell out at abudhabigp.com.
Stay tuned to Gulf Buzz to be the first to know when new artists are announced!