Next Saudi Generation Program Launched to Boost Motorsports Talent

The Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) has launched the Next Saudi Generation Program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at identifying and developing local motorsports talent across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on January 4, 2025. The program, conducted in collaboration with the Saudi Motorsport Company and under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport, is designed to empower Saudi youth by providing structured pathways into rally racing and the broader motorsports ecosystem.

Context and Background

This initiative marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its sports sector and nurture homegrown talent in competitive disciplines. Motorsports have gained considerable traction in the Kingdom following the successful hosting of major international events such as the Dakar Rally and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The Next Saudi Generation Program builds on this momentum by creating a formal development pipeline for both male and female drivers, aligning with the broader national objective of expanding participation in sports.

Key Details

As part of the inaugural phase, five driver and co-driver pairs have been selected to compete in the Saudi Rally 2025, the Kingdom’s most challenging motorsports event, now in its sixth consecutive year. The selected participants include Fahd Al-Marmash with co-driver Hossam Al-Zahrani, Hamza Bakhshab with co-driver Fahd Al-Omar, Abdullah Al-Shaqawi with co-driver Raed Al-Assaf, Merihan Al-Baz with co-driver Waleed Al-Sheqawi, and Fatima Banaz. These competitors were chosen during the Qassim Rally, a key round of the Saudi Rally Championship. Participants are currently undergoing intensive training in Bisha through January 5, 2025, under the guidance of former driver Edo Mossi. The training includes theoretical sessions, practical exercises, and field tests aboard Yamaha SSV vehicles.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Next Saudi Generation Program?

A1. It is an initiative launched by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation to identify and develop Saudi talent in motorsports, with a focus on rally racing.

Q2. Who launched the program?

A2. The program was launched by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation in collaboration with the Saudi Motorsport Company and under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport.

Q3. What is the main goal of the program?

A3. The program aims to empower Saudi youth by providing training and competitive opportunities in motorsports, fostering future champions in rally racing.

Q4. How many drivers were selected for the program?

A4. Five drivers and their co-drivers were selected for the program’s inaugural phase.

Q5. Who are the selected drivers?

A5. The selected drivers are Fahd Al-Marmash, Hamza Bakhshab, Abdullah Al-Shaqawi, Merihan Al-Baz, and Fatima Banaz.

Q6. Do female drivers participate in the program?

A6. Yes, the program includes female participants Merihan Al-Baz and Fatima Banaz, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to inclusive sports development.

Q7. Where will the selected participants compete?

A7. They will compete in the Saudi Rally 2025, the Kingdom’s most prestigious and challenging motorsports event.

Q8. How were the participants chosen?

A8. The participants were selected during the Qassim Rally, a key round of the Saudi Rally Championship.

Q9. What kind of training do participants receive?

A9. Training includes theoretical and practical sessions, as well as comprehensive field tests aboard Yamaha SSV vehicles.

Q10. Where is the training taking place?

A10. The training is taking place in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, and runs until January 5, 2025.

Q11. Who is leading the training sessions?

A11. The training is led by former driver Edo Mossi.

Q12. Who are the program’s supervisors?

A12. Program supervisors include Saudi rally experts Yazeed Al-Rajhi, Yasser Seidan, and Mishaal Al-Ghoneim.

Q13. What is the prize for the winning team?

A13. The winning team will earn the opportunity to compete in the Dakar Rally 2026.

Q14. What is the Saudi Rally 2025?

A14. The Saudi Rally 2025 is the Kingdom’s most challenging motorsports event, hosted for the sixth consecutive year.

Q15. How does the program support Vision 2030?

A15. The program supports Vision 2030 by developing local talent, boosting sports participation, and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s international profile in motorsports.

Q16. Is the program open to both men and women?

A16. Yes, the program is open to both male and female participants, promoting gender inclusion in Saudi sports.

Q17. What vehicles are used in the training?

A17. Training uses Yamaha SSV vehicles for field tests and practical sessions.

Q18. Has Saudi Arabia hosted major motorsports events before?

A18. Yes, Saudi Arabia has successfully hosted the Dakar Rally and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, among other events.

Q19. What is the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation?

A19. It is the governing body for motorsports in Saudi Arabia, responsible for organizing and promoting the sport under the Ministry of Sport.

Q20. What is the duration of the program?

A20. The program is ongoing, with the current training phase concluding on January 5, 2025, and subsequent phases tied to competition cycles.

Implications and Impact

The Next Saudi Generation Program is set to strengthen the Kingdom’s motorsports ecosystem by cultivating a pipeline of skilled drivers capable of competing on regional and international stages. By including both male and female participants, the initiative reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gender inclusion in sports, a key aspect of the country’s broader social and economic modernization. Successful execution of the program could enhance Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a hub for motorsports development and talent export.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This program directly supports Vision 2030 objectives by promoting sports as a driver of economic diversification, social engagement, and international recognition. The focus on youth development and gender inclusion aligns with the Kingdom’s goal of building a vibrant society with active participation in diverse fields. By investing in motorsports talent, Saudi Arabia is laying the groundwork for sustained excellence in a globally popular sport, contributing to the long-term success of its national transformation agenda.

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