Beyond the track: exploring the psychological dimensions of leisure at the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

World Leisure Journal

Publication Date

10-16-2025

Abstract

This study explores the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix as a dynamic, multifaceted leisure experience that offers far more than a motorsport spectacle. Since its launch in 2009, the Grand Prix has evolved into a multi-day cultural festival that blends sport with music, food, and community engagement. Moving beyond organizational or commercial perspectives, this study focuses on the experiential dimensions of the event, emphasizing emotional engagement with its programming. This study addresses the gap in understanding how environmental design at non-Western mega-events affects visitors’ psychological outcomes. Drawing on interviews and field observations, it highlights the event’s potential to generate positive psychological experiences–such as joy, excitement, belonging, and pride. By analyzing how the Grand Prix contributes to individual well-being, the study reveals how large-scale events can serve broader social and emotional functions. It offers insight for stakeholders to enhance the experiential quality and impact of leisure mega events.

ISSN

1607-8055

Publisher

Informa UK Limited

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Keywords

environmental psychology, Middle East, Sport mega-events, subjective well-being

Scopus ID

105019240939

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

Link to Full Text

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