Qatar Int'l Rally Unveils New Look for 50th Anniversary

The Qatar International Rally is gearing up for an electrifying edition as it celebrates its 50th anniversary with a brand-new visual identity. The rally, the second round of the 2025 Middle East Rally Championship, kicks off on February 6 in Doha and follows Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah’s victory at the season-opening Oman International Rally.

This year’s milestone event pays tribute to Qatar’s deep motorsport heritage, blending tradition with modern design. The new logo and branding feature the Arabian oryx, a symbol of resilience and endurance—mirroring the grit required for rally racing across the region’s challenging desert terrain. Inspired by Qatar’s landscape, the design also incorporates Zekreet’s rock formations, Bedouin tent embroidery, and desert hues, reflecting the sport’s legacy and the country’s cultural roots.

A Legacy of Speed and Excellence

First held in 1975, the Qatar International Rally has grown from a modest regional event to a cornerstone of Middle Eastern motorsport. The inaugural edition saw British driver Peter Austen and Qatari co-driver Humaid Abdulrahim claim victory. Today, the rally is a flagship event on the FIA Middle East Rally Championship calendar, attracting top drivers from around the world.

Notable champions over the years include Saeed Al Hajri, who won in 1983 and 1984, and Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, who holds a record 13 victories. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has also left his mark with nine wins, while the late Bjorn Waldegard—a World Rally Champion—secured victory in 1986.

Spectacular Opening and Rally Action

The 2025 Qatar International Rally will officially kick off with an opening ceremony on February 6 at Lusail Boulevard - Al Sa’ad Plaza at 6pm, followed by the Super Special Stage at Lusail Karting Track at 7pm. The event runs until February 8, concluding with an awards ceremony at Lusail Boulevard at 7pm.

With world-class drivers, thrilling desert tracks, and a bold new identity, this year’s rally is set to be a landmark event in Qatar’s motorsport history.

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