Qatari rally legend Nasser Saadon Al Kuwari announces retirement after 25-year career
DOHA: Seven-time Middle East Rally Champion co-driver Nasser Saadon Al-Kuwari has officially announced his retirement, closing the chapter on an extraordinary 25-year career in motorsports.
The Qatari rally veteran called the decision “the most difficult” of his life, having spent decades representing his country at the highest level.
“I have decided to retire from my motorsports career after spending the past 25 years in rally cars,” Al-Kuwari shared in an emotional Instagram post on Monday night.
With his departure, Al-Kuwari steps away as one of the most decorated co-drivers in Middle Eastern rally history, boasting 10 Qatar Rally Championship titles, six Kuwait Rally victories, and multiple regional and international accolades.
A Fitting Final Season
Even in his farewell year, 2025, Al-Kuwari continued to showcase his brilliance on the global stage, securing fourth place in the Challenger class at the Dakar Rally and excelling in the Baja Middle East Cup’s opening round in Hail, alongside his brother Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari.
Initially, Al-Kuwari had intended to retire in 2024, but his passion for rallying kept him going. He had planned to complete the current season co-driving for his cousin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, but Monday’s unexpected announcement brought those plans to an abrupt end.
“My target was to stop last year, but it is not easy to leave rally racing,” he admitted.
A Shock to the Rallying World
The news of his retirement sent ripples through the motorsport community, as Al-Kuwari remains widely regarded as one of the best co-drivers in the sport. His relentless pursuit of victory defined his career.
“I always have to win races,” he stated. “It’s never just about participating—I compete to win.”
Now, Al-Kuwari looks forward to spending more time with his family and embracing his new role at beIN Sports, marking a natural transition after an illustrious career on the road. His retirement signals the end of an era in Middle Eastern rallying, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
