Creventic has revealed and confirmed the calendar for the 2026/27 24H Series Middle East Trophy, which features a second visit to the Yas Marina Circuit for a new 12-hour race.
The Yas 12 Hours, which replaces Sepang as the season opener, will be held on 12th to 13th December 2026, as part of a new deal to run the event in December on a long-term basis.
The season will then continue with the blue-riband 24H Dubai, on 8th to 10th January 2027, before returning to Yas Marina for the 6H Abu Dhabi on 16th to 17th January.
This means that the 24H Dubai and 6H Abu Dhabi are reverting to their usual running order, after swapping over for the 2025/26 season, which featured Dubai as the season finale.
The 8H Qatar, which was initially announced to be taking place in December, has been postponed due to logistical challenges in the region.
This announcement marks the first significant series to confirm a return to the Middle East since the conflict began between Israel, the USA and Iran earlier this year. LMEM still to confirm whether there will be any changes to the revised FIA WEC calendar, or to the as yet unconfirmed Asian Le Mans Series calendar for 2026/27.
“We’re really proud to add the Yas 12 Hours to our calendar,” said Helen Roukens, general manager at Creventic.
“The Middle East has always been one of our most exciting destinations, and the strong entry numbers last season show there’s real potential to keep growing here. Having all three events scheduled so close together is a great next step, and we’re looking forward to delivering a strong winter season for our teams and drivers.”
The calendar, notably, explains some of the difficulties faced by the Gulf 12 Hours, which recently cancelled its 2027 edition. The event was set to clash with the 24H Dubai, and would also have had to contend with another 12-hour race being held at the Yas Marina Circuit over the winter period.
2026/27 24H Series Middle East Trophy Calendar:
- Yas 12 Hours, Yas Marina Circuit, UAE (12th to 13th December 2026)
- 24H Dubai, Dubai Autodrome, UAE (8th to 10th January 2027)
- 6H Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, UAE (16th to 17th January 2027)
Image courtesy of Racingpixels
