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Saudi Rally Concludes as Nasser Al-Attiyah Triumphs in Third Round of Middle East Championship

The Saudi Rally, part of the third round of the Middle East Rally Championship, came to a close today. The event, overseen by the Ministry of Sports and organized by the Saudi Motorsports Company in collaboration with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, showcased thrilling motorsport competition in the heart of the Kingdom.

During the award ceremony, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdullah bin Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsports Company, presented the championship trophy to the Qatari driver Nasser Al-Attiyah and his Spanish co-driver, Candido Carrera, from the Skoda team. Their impressive performance secured them the first place in the rally, marking Al-Attiyah’s remarkable achievement of 89 victories in the Middle East Rally Championship, which operates under the aegis of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile).

In the second stage of the event, Finnish driver Juho Hänninen, competing in a Toyota Gazoo, claimed the second position, finishing with a time that was one minute and thirty-seven seconds behind the leader. Saudi racer Rakan Al-Rashed, also in a Toyota, captured the third place, trailing by five minutes and three seconds.

In a statement after his victory, Nasser Al-Attiyah expressed the significance of the Middle East Rally Championship being hosted in Saudi Arabia, especially with the World Rally Championship set to take place in November. "It is vital to have this championship in the Kingdom, and participating in the upcoming World Rally will be a goal for me. Despite the challenging terrain of the Saudi Rally, the event was a success," he remarked, highlighting the rally’s tough conditions yet celebrating its overall execution.

Looking ahead, the next round of the Middle East Rally Championship is scheduled to take place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 29 to May 31, 2025. This continuation underscores the growing significance of motorsports in the region, fostering a vibrant competitive atmosphere among driving enthusiasts and contributing to the development of motorsports infrastructure in the Middle East.

The Saudi Rally’s conclusion not only highlights the skill and determination of its participants, but also reiterates the commitment of Saudi Arabia to host world-class sporting events. By successfully organizing prominent rallies and engaging in the international motorsport arena, the Kingdom is establishing itself as a pivotal player in the regional and global sports landscape. Through these events, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance its reputation as a destination for international sporting competitions, drawing competitors and spectators from around the globe.

As the regional motorsport community looks forward to the next event in Jordan, excitement is building for what promises to be an enthralling continuation of a prestigious championship that not only tests the limits of drivers and vehicles but also promotes tourism and sportsmanship in the region.

With a focus on sustainable development and cultural exchange, Saudi Arabia aims to make a lasting impact on the motorsports scene, pushing for innovations in event management and athlete engagement to pave the way for a new era of motorsports in the Middle East.