Formula 1 and UFC Ignite Doha

Doha takes centre stage as the world’s best fighters and fastest drivers descend on Qatar for a week of non-stop action.

The desert is about to roar. From the intensity of the Octagon® to the scream of Formula 1 engines, Qatar is closing out November with a double bill of world-class sport that’s set to electrify fans across the globe.

The excitement kicks off with UFC’s first-ever event in Qatar, UFC FIGHT NIGHT: TSARUKYAN VS. HOOKER, on Saturday, November 22, live from the spectacular ABHA Arena. Just one week later, the spotlight shifts to the Lusail International Circuit, where the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix will light up the night from November 28–30. Together, these two powerhouse events promise an unforgettable fusion of sport, spectacle, and global glamour.

Fight Night Takes Doha by Storm

In a milestone moment for Middle Eastern MMA, No. 2-ranked lightweight Arman Tsarukyan of Armenia squares off against New Zealand’s No. 7-ranked Dan Hooker in a high-stakes main event that’s already setting the fight world abuzz. The card also features a welterweight showdown between Belal Muhammad (ranked No. 1) and Ireland’s undefeated Ian Machado Garry (ranked No. 6), adding even more firepower to UFC’s Doha debut.

Hosted by Visit Qatar, this event cements the nation’s growing love affair with mixed martial arts and marks a pivotal chapter in UFC’s Middle Eastern expansion — following a groundbreaking debut in Saudi Arabia and a long-standing partnership with Abu Dhabi, where UFC® 321 took place last month.

Expect a week of fan events, media buzz, and star appearances across Doha, transforming the city into a global fight capital — if only for one unforgettable night.

Then, It’s Lights Out and Away We Go

Barely catching its breath, Doha will shift gears to the high-octane world of Formula 1, as the Qatar Grand Prix returns under the lights at Lusail. The sport’s elite drivers will push to the limit at blistering speeds, battling for glory before a worldwide audience of tens of millions.

The back-to-back scheduling of these global events underscores Qatar’s meteoric rise as an international sports hub. Since hosting the FIFA World Cup™ in 2022, the country has strategically built on its momentum — from the AFC Asian Cup 2024 and WTA 1000 tennis tournaments to the Doha Diamond League — creating a year-round calendar of elite competition.

A Week That Defines Doha

With both UFC and Formula 1 bringing fans, celebrities, and media from around the world, the final week of November is shaping up to be one of Doha’s most thrilling yet. Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT: TSARUKYAN VS. HOOKER are already selling fast, as anticipation builds for what promises to be a historic debut.

Together, UFC and F1 will broadcast Qatar’s skyline, spirit, and state-of-the-art venues to audiences in over 170 countries. Beyond the roar of the crowd and the flash of cameras, this back-to-back showcase is proof that Qatar’s infrastructure, hospitality, and ambition stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s top sporting destinations.

From the fight cage to the F1 circuit, Doha is set to deliver an adrenaline-fuelled finale to 2025 — a week where power, precision, and passion collide in spectacular style.

@visitqatar | visitqatar.com

Instagram

    Follow us

    Newsletter

    Our monthly edit of the best in culture, style, food and luxury travel.