Molly Qerim resurfaced with rare energy this week in Abu Dhabi, ending her trip in a look that immediately grabbed attention across social media. Her fans have been hoping for a sign of what she has been up to since stepping away from television. This appearance gave them that spark. Qerim appeared confident, comfortable and very much in control of her own story as she explored the capital of the United Arab Emirates during Formula 1 weekend.
The 41-year-old has avoided the spotlight since she abruptly quit First Take in September. Her exit stunned viewers, especially because she left under circumstances that she didn’t get to share firsthand. That frustration showed in her emotional public note, where she wrote, “After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world.”
Molly Qerim resurfaced draws attention with her F1 looks
Reports suggested she was lowballed in salary negotiations, and once she walked, the network moved quickly. Shae Cornette stepped in, though her introduction on the show came with an awkward moment from Stephen A.
Smith that fans still talk about. Since then, Qerim has chosen silence, showing up only once for a special appearance at her former college.

Molly Qerim (Molly Qerim/Instagram)
Her quiet stretch ended in Abu Dhabi, where she shifted into the influencer space with ease. She modeled a beach outfit that fans loved, then switched to a relaxed tank top for a camel ride in the desert. At the F1 race, she stunned again, this time in a simple strapless top from the track. It wasn’t just the looks that stood out. She also shared a message full of gratitude, writing, “I will never forget today! Thank you @f1 @visitabudhabi @melt.live So very grateful. Seeing how sports brings the world together will never cease to amaze me.”
Now the conversation turns to what she will do next. Her presence is missed on First Take, and her latest appearances prove she still commands attention wherever she goes.
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