Oman International Rally 2025: Middle East Rallying season begins
MUSCAT: The 2025 FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC) has officially begun with the Oman International Rally, starting Thursday afternoon from the Sohar Entertainment Centre (SEC). Organized by the Oman Automobile Association (OAA), the event features 16 teams from nine countries, alongside six local crews competing in the Oman National Championship.
Over three days, competitors will navigate 13 special stages covering 232.39 competitive kilometers. Among the highlights are three former Middle East champions who lead a star-studded lineup.
Qatar’s Abdulaziz al-Kuwari, fresh off a fourth-place finish in the Dakar Rally’s Challenger category, returns to MERC action in a Citroën C3, partnered with Irish co-driver Lorcan Moore. Defending champion Nasser Saleh al-Attiyah, a seven-time Oman rally winner, seeks an eighth title in an Autotek Motorsport Skoda Fabia RS, with French navigator Edouard Boulanger making his MERC debut.
Local favorite Abdullah al-Rawahi, driving another Skoda with Jordanian co-driver Ata-Hmoud, is targeting a third consecutive victory in his home rally, adding to the excitement for Omani fans.
The Oman International Rally promises an exhilarating start to the MERC season, bringing together top talents and thrilling motorsport action.
