Muscat: They are Oman’s talented trio in the world of motorsports. They have flown the flag of the Sultanate of Oman at the biggest stage and brought laurels for the country across various nations. They have set the tracks and circuits ablaze at some of the most renowned and challenging races and rallies. They are stars in their own right that Oman’s motorsports fraternity is proud of and role models for Oman’s youngsters.
Meet Ahmad Al Harthy, Abdullah Al Rawahi, and Al Faisal Al Zubair.
The trio’s achievements in the world of motorsports are well-known as they have earned victories at the biggest races and rallies.
In a gesture to acknowledge their contribution to motorsports, the Oman Automobile Association (OAA) recently organised a felicitation ceremony for them at the OAA headquarters.
Brigadier Salim al Maskari, OAA chairman of the board of directors, and Brigadier Jamal al Tai, OAA vice-chairman, honoured the trio and lauded their achievements. The top OAA officials wished the three stars the best for their upcoming assignments as the trio is involved in a busy season of endurance races and rallies.
Al Faisal Al Zubair’s impressive results saw him secure second place in the Asian Le Mans Series in Dubai and also the runner-up spot in the Gold Cup category of the Fanatec GT World Challenge Endurance at Paul Ricard in France. Recently, Al Zubair won the opening round of the International GT Open held in Portimão, Portugal.
Ahmad Al Harthy, the most experienced driver, who has had a stellar career over the past ten years, was recently also honored with a Royal Commendation badge. During the past decade, Al Harthy has to his credit many wins, including at the world-famous Spa circuit and Le Mans race.
Abdullah Al Rawahi last year became the first-ever driver to be crowned FIA Middle East Rally Championship winner from Oman. He shared the title with legendary Nasser Al Attiyah.
Al Rawahi is also the recipient of an FIA award, and he along with Al Harthy were also honoured by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth.
Al Rawahi also secured a respectable third-place finish in the opening round of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship 2024 held in Qatar.
The felicitation ceremony underlines OAA’s commitment to promoting and supporting motorsport in Oman. The OAA has been instrumental in creating a platform for Omani drivers to showcase their talents and compete at the highest levels.