JUAN CARLOS I REAPPEARS IN ABU DHABI AND STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT DURING F1’S BIG WEEKEND
A weekend filled with smiles, flashes and unexpected moments set the tone for Formula 1’s grand finale. Between on-track excitement and surprising encounters off it, one figure captured everyone’s attention.
The final Grand Prix of the season in Abu Dhabi not only crowned Lando Norris as the new Formula 1 world champion. It also delivered one of the most talked-about images of the weekend: the reappearance of King Juan Carlos I at the Yas Marina Circuit, where he appeared relaxed, approachable and closely following the performance of the Spanish drivers.
True to his passion for motorsport an enthusiasm documented over decades the former monarch attended Saturday’s qualifying session and followed the championship’s conclusion from the front row. He did so in a laid-back atmosphere, exchanging greetings, conversations and photos with key figures in the paddock. Among the most notable moments was his interaction with Carlos Sainz Jr., who arrived at the event following his second podium of the season and started the final race from twelfth place. Sainz, wearing his signature blue Williams suit, posed with the king and his parents, Carlos Sainz a two-time Rally world champion and four-time Dakar winner and Reyes Vázquez de Castro, in an image that quickly spread worldwide.
It wasn’t the only nostalgic reunion of the day. Juan Carlos also greeted motorsport legends such as Jackie Stewart and former driver and commentator Martin Brundle, sharing laughs and photos. Ana de Armas’ appearance did not go unnoticed either, as the Hollywood star added to the warm, supportive atmosphere that defined the Yas Marina weekend.
For the king emeritus, these appearances have become increasingly common since moving to the United Arab Emirates. In recent years, he has been seen at the Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, always offering support to Spanish drivers and showing that his love for Formula 1 remains strong. Archives back this up: countless photos show him alongside icons like Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher.
However, his presence at this Grand Prix comes at a symbolic moment. This week, his memoir Reconciliación was officially released in Spain an intimate and wide-ranging account of his life as king. Written with historian Laurence Debray, the book explores the highs, lows and controversies of his reign, closing a long collaborative chapter between author and subject. The presentation in Madrid which he did not attend, being represented by Infanta Elena made headlines, as did a video circulating online in which he encouraged young people to support the monarchy.
But in Abu Dhabi, there was no politics. No debates. No controversy. Just smiles, photos and roaring engines. The images show Juan Carlos calm, enjoying the atmosphere and moving comfortably among old acquaintances. A discreet but meaningful presence in a weekend that closed the F1 season with excitement on the track and an unexpected star off it.