Yas Marina Circuit has announced the launch of AZM GT, a new GT racing championship designed, according to the circuit, to create a competitive platform for professional and amateur GT teams and drivers in the UAE.
The circuit says AZM GT will debut with a special Trophy Round that is non-championship, held during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026. That Trophy Round is scheduled for 4 to 6 December 2026.
Following the Trophy Round, Yas Marina Circuit says the championship season will begin in January 2027, with a calendar of three rounds. Yas Marina Circuit will host the season opener, Dubai Autodrome will stage the second round, and the championship finale is set to return to Yas Marina Circuit in February 2027.
Eligibility and race format
Yas Marina Circuit says AZM GT is open to GT3, GT Cup and GT4 machinery. The circuit also states that each round will include a structured track programme aimed at providing multiple sessions across practice, qualifying and racing.
According to the announcement, each championship round will feature:
- Three 60-minute free practice sessions
- Two 15-minute qualifying sessions
- Two 55-minute races
Motorsport development focus
Yas Marina Circuit said AZM GT is developed and promoted by the venue and is intended to support what it describes as the continued development and resilience of the UAE motorsport landscape.
The circuit’s general manager, Ali Al Beshr, said the championship represents “an important step forward” in Yas Marina Circuit’s ambition to strengthen the UAE’s motorsport ecosystem and create more opportunities for competitive racing. He also stated that launching AZM GT during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend provides a way to introduce the series to the motorsport community before a 2027 season he described as exciting.
Registration and interest
Yas Marina Circuit said teams and drivers interested in participating in the AZM GT Trophy Round and the 2027 Championship are invited to register their interest.
The announcement was made from Abu Dhabi, UAE on 14 October 2026.