Gran Turismo 7 has officially launched a UAE-exclusive Time Trial competition, running from February 20 to March 1, 2026. The initiative serves as a prelude to the opening round of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026, set to take place on March 28, 2026, at Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi — marking the championship’s first-ever appearance in the Middle East.
Participants will compete to set the fastest single-lap time at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, driving the Porsche GT3 R (911) ’22
The challenge offers players the opportunity to test their skills on one of the world’s most renowned racetracks. Top performers will advance to the GT Cup 2026 UAE finals, part of the championship’s official program, opening the door to compete on the global stage of elite sim racing.
The top 24 players will qualify for the GT Cup 2026 UAE
While the top 250 participants will receive complimentary tickets to attend the championship’s opening round. On the Yas Marina Circuit virtual track, players can refine racing lines, braking points, and car control techniques, earn in-game rewards, and showcase their abilities before a global audience.
The Time Trial aims to build excitement among motorsport fans ahead of this historic event
Organized by Polyphony Digital, a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment and developer and publisher of the Gran Turismo franchise, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Gaming & Esports — the government-led initiative spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. The initiative seeks to strengthen the emirate’s position as a leading global hub for gaming and esports.
Markus Müller-Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming & Esports
Stated that the Time Trial goes beyond simply recording the fastest laps; it is also designed to identify and spotlight emerging racing talent. As Abu Dhabi prepares to host the Gran Turismo World Series for the first time in the Middle East, the initiative highlights top esports drivers and connects them with one of the most prestigious motorsport brands in the world, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a premier destination for esports and motorsport.
Kazunori Yamauchi, Producer of the Gran Turismo series
Added that restricting the competition to UAE-based players creates a unique pathway for local drivers to make their mark internationally. Whether aiming to qualify for the championship or experience the opening event firsthand, the challenge presents an exceptional opportunity for local talent to join the global Gran Turismo community.
The event represents a significant milestone for sim racing in the region, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s advanced esports infrastructure alongside its rich motorsport heritage to a worldwide audience. Organizers encourage all players to participate and test their skills ahead of the major championship event at Space42 Arena on March 28.
“Since its debut in Japan in 1997 by Polyphony Digital, Gran Turismo has established itself as one of the world’s leading racing simulation franchises, selling more than 100 million copies worldwide thanks to its realism, advanced physics engine, and meticulous attention to detail”.
