DUBAI // Rallying success will prove the springboard for establishing the UAE as a leading motorsport nation and has enabled a new generation of local talent to challenge on the international scene, according to Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the vice president of the FIA, speaking on the eve of the 2008 Dubai rally.
"The UAE have proved they can produce good rally drivers. The next stage will be to challenge in other forms of motorsport. Now there are two circuits in the UAE as well as in Qatar and Bahrain and this provides opportunities for drivers in the region. "Ten years ago motorsport in the UAE was limited to rallying. That is all drivers knew. But now there are circuits it presents an opportunity to develop further. The government are supporting us in establishing the UAE on the motorsport map and in ensuring that local drivers can challenge for championships.
"You have to dream and have the courage and dedication to fulfil that dream. It is easy now for a father to take his son to a circuit to see a race. And if a young fan is inspired by this then there is the infrastructure and support in place for him to become a future star of the sport." The Dubai International Rally, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2008, begins today at the Al Mamzar Corniche before 642km of legs and special stages on the Madam plain, Jebel Rawdah and Filli. Local favourite Sheikh Khalid al Qassimi will be looking to repeat his successes in 2005 and 2006. He joins a chasing pack of 71 competitors from 16 countries racing to deny Qatar's Nasser al Attiyah quest to retain his title.
The rally is the final round of the Middle East Rally championship, with Attiyah already crowned as champion. But competition for podium places will still be fierce as a victory in the Dubai rally, an iconic and historic event in the Middle East championship, would be a career highlight for any driver. tbrooks@thenational.ae