Motorsport may be the main highlight of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but there’s no denying the larger spectacle that plays out across the event, with the exclusive venues, sensational fashion statements, and VIP guests orbiting the Yas Marina Circuit. Of those detours, one of the most talked-about came courtesy of Chivas Regal, which brought back its private viewing experience with a hospitality takeover at the W Hotel’s Royal Terrace, rebranded as the ‘Regal Terrace’ for the weekend. 

With the advantage of an elevated position, guests had uninterrupted views of the racetrack. It was close enough to follow the action, but far enough to escape the chaos, and with a live DJ providing a soundtrack, it was the perfect setting to enjoy the evening in the most sophisticated way. 

As you’d expect from a heritage distillery, a large part of the focus was on the drinks menu. Chivas Regal Crystalgold, a recent release from the brand, described as a ‘spirit drink’, was a constant feature in the cocktails served throughout the night. It’s made from a bespoke blend that goes through an advanced filtration process to remove all colour, while keeping the character and depth you would expect from an aged liquor.

Chivas Regal Crystalgold had its first major outing in Dubai shortly before the Grand Prix, at a launch event attended by Charles Leclerc, the Scuderia Ferrari HP star who acts as the whisky label’s global ambassador.

The Regal Terrace also celebrated the partnership between Chivas Regal and the Scuderia, built around shared values of ambition, precision and progress. The collaboration was highlighted during the weekend with appearances from Ferrari Reserve Driver Zhou Guanyu and Scuderia Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur. Both took the floor to share personal reflections on the season, away from the sharper edges of the paddock, providing a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the sport. 

Ultimately, Chivas Regal delivered exactly what it came to do. The Regal Terrace gave those on the guest list a place to watch, drink, and decompress, with just enough gloss to remind you that Abu Dhabi, especially during race week, rarely does anything by halves.