Hail, January 29, 2025 – The Hail International Rally has carved its name as one of the region's most prestigious desert rallies, captivating motorsport enthusiasts since its inception in 2006 and serving as a thrilling stage for global competition, crowning champions from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, and beyond. The rally, now in its 20th edition in 2025, continues its legacy of excellence and adventure, attracting top-tier drivers and motorsport legends from across the globe to challenge the unforgiving terrain of the Saudi Arabian desert.
The origins of the Hail Rally can be traced back to 2006, when Saudi racer Farhan Al-Ghalib made history by becoming the first-ever winner of this challenging race. His victory set the tone for what would become a fiercely competitive event in the years that followed. As the rally grew in prominence, so did the success of Saudi racers, with the late Rajeh Al-Shammari securing victory in the second edition in 2007, further establishing Saudi Arabia's place at the heart of the rallying world.
In 2008, the rally witnessed a new champion in the form of Qatari motorsport legend Nasser Al-Attiyah, whose experience and expertise on desert terrain saw him claim the top spot. Al-Attiyah would go on to add a second title in 2011, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant forces in motorsport. His victories in the Hail Rally further cemented the event's international appeal, attracting competitors from all corners of the globe.
As the years progressed, Saudi Arabia's dominance in the rally scene continued with the rise of Yazeed Al-Rajhi, whose name would become synonymous with success at the Hail Rally. Al-Rajhi clinched his first title in 2009, and his consistency over the next decade would see him emerge as one of the rally’s most successful competitors. With victories in 2010, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2022, and 2024, Al-Rajhi's seven wins have made him a fan favorite and a symbol of Saudi motorsport excellence. His mastery of the rally’s demanding conditions has earned him respect not only in the Arab world but also among motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
A significant milestone in the rally’s history came in 2013, when Czech driver Miroslav Zapletal became the first European to claim victory, marking a pivotal moment in the event’s evolution as an international rallying spectacle. His triumph opened the door for other international drivers to compete, further raising the profile of the Hail Rally on the world stage.
Saudi competitors continued to shine in the following years, with Ibrahim Al-Muhanna’s victory in 2014 and Fares Al-Mashna’s impressive performance to claim the title in 2017. These wins demonstrated the growing depth of talent within Saudi Arabia’s motorsport community and reinforced the country’s position as a powerhouse in desert rallying.
Essa Al-Dosari's back-to-back wins in 2018 and 2019 added another chapter to the Saudi dominance at the Hail Rally. His victories were a testament to the increasing level of competition and the quality of drivers emerging from the region. In 2020, Saleh Alabdalali took home first place, continuing the Saudi winning streak. The 2020 edition of the rally was particularly notable for hosting two Baja rounds, with two separate champions crowned: Nasser Al-Attiyah secured victory in Baja 1, while Spain’s Carlos Sainz claimed Baja 2, adding an international flair to the event.
Al-Attiyah would return to the podium in 2021 and 2023, adding his fourth and fifth Hail Rally titles to his illustrious career, further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest drivers. His tenacity and skill in the challenging desert environment made him a formidable contender year after year, and his consistent performances showcased the depth of talent on display in the Hail Rally.
The rally’s most recent edition in 2024 saw Yazeed Al-Rajhi reaffirm his position as a rally legend, claiming his seventh title with another commanding performance. Al-Rajhi’s victory once again highlighted his exceptional skill behind the wheel and his unyielding determination to succeed in one of the toughest rally events in the world.
As the Hail International Rally enters its 20th edition in 2025, the event’s rich history and legacy continue to inspire and excite motorsport fans around the world. From its humble beginnings in 2006 to its current status as a global motorsport fixture, the Hail Rally has become a true symbol of excellence in desert racing. With each passing year, the competition grows fiercer, the stakes higher, and the excitement more palpable. As new champions rise and legends are made, the Hail Rally remains a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure, skill, and competition that defines the heart of motorsport.