Abu Dhabi made motorsport history this weekend as Etihad Arena hosted the first-ever Arenacross World Tour Finals.
Adrien Escoffier, riding for D.A.D APW Racing / Al Yousuf Yamaha, claimed the inaugural Arenacross World Tour title after a dramatic final race that saw championship leader Dean Wilson crash out late while in a strong position.Following a restart caused by an early incident, Wilson appeared set to secure the title, but a costly fall in the closing stages allowed Escoffier to finish second and snatch the championship. Michael Hicks won the race, helping Stark Future Racing clinch the team title.
The event marked a major milestone for regional motorsport, with the high-stakes finale capping off a thrilling global season. In just 48 hours, the world-class entertainment venue – Etihad Arena – was transformed into a professional-grade dirt track. Over 3000 tonnes of dirt were sculpted into an indoor circuit built to international standards, complete with custom rigging, lighting, and safety features, all delivered by a 40-person specialist crew.
Ali Al Beshr, Yas Marina Circuit General Manager at Ethara said:“At Ethara, we support motorsports at every level across many disciplines, and we are delighted to bring the Arenacross World Tour Finals to fans here in Abu Dhabi. Witnessing the passion, skill, and intensity of these world-class riders was truly inspiring. Events like this fuel our drive to deliver unforgettable experiences, grow sport across the region and make Abu Dhabi a destination that motorsport fans can’t miss.”
One of the night’s standout moments was My First Race Abu Dhabi, an initiative that gave children aged 5–7 their first taste of a professional motocross stage. Developed by the Arenacross World Tour and ANB Motorsports, the programme offered six young riders full training, custom race kits, and their own podium moment on the same track as the pros, with one lucky rider taking home a Stacyc electric bike to kick-start their racing journey.
Matt Bates, CEO of Arenacross, added:
“Arenacross has always been about building pathways for the next generation of riders. No other indoor series integrates youth racing at this level – and to bring that spirit to Abu Dhabi, in partnership with such forward-thinking collaborators, has been incredibly rewarding.”
Relive the action and access high-res event images here.
