Gulf Challenge treat for fans

EXCITING times are ahead for the sport in 2017, with all six federations in the Gulf region joining hands to form a new series called Gulf Challenge.

Bikes, cars and buggies will feature in the new series primarily aimed at tapping the enormous potential of Arab drivers in cross-country rallying.

“This is the biggest development for the GCC motorsport community since rallying started in the region 30 years ago. We see this as the perfect launch pad for the next generation of Arab drivers who want to compete in the three FIA World Cups in the region,” said Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) President Abdulrahman Al Mannai after attending the meeting of GCC federation heads in Dubai last week.

The meeting, held under the leadership of Automobile & Touring Club of UAE President Mohammed bin Sulayem, a 14-time Middle East rally champion, was attended among others by Bahrain Motor Federation President Shaikh Abdulla bin Issa Al Khalifa, Kuwait International Automobile Club chief Sheikh Ali Al Fawaz Al Sabah, Oman Automobile Association Chairman Jamal Al Ta’ai and Saudi Arabian Motorsport Federation head Abudullah Bakashab.

Though the Gulf Challenge schedule will be released later, the inaugural event will feature rounds in Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar.