Today's Edition
Asila Al Badi (ABU DHABI)
Emirati driver Rashid Al Dhaheri heads into the second round of the Formula Regional season this weekend carrying the momentum of a historic maiden victory at Yas Marina Circuit.
He became the first driver from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to win a race in the series last week on home turf – Yas Marina Circuit. With the win, Al Dhaheri will now look to build on a performance that he believes has validated his team’s intensive preparation at Yas Heat Racing.
The opening round of the Trophy series brought together 32 drivers representing 11 teams, under the approval of the world body FIA. The victory marked a successful debut with a new car and team, a transition Al Dhaheri described as seamless following months of physical and mental conditioning.
The weekend was especially notable as teams and drivers contested the new Tatuus T-326 Formula Regional car for the first time in competition. “After the 2025 season ended, I didn’t really take a break. I worked continuously on my physical training, mental preparation, and nutrition,” he told Aletihad.
“We’re still getting to know each other, but the chemistry clicked very quickly. When preparation, mindset, and teamwork all come together, that’s when good results happen.”
Al Dhaheri started with karting, like everyone else, and his connection with the sport began when he attended the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix with his father at the Yas Marina Circuit at the age of three. From the Al Ain Raceway to competing in Italy within three years at the age of six on the karting scene, Al Dhaheri has built his foundation blocks solid and steady.
“Being the first Emirati and the first driver from the MENA region to win a Formula Regional race means a lot to me, especially because it happened at home,” he said. “Yas Marina Circuit is where I fell in love with motorsport, so coming back years later and winning a Formula Regional race here is something I will never forget.”
As the championship progresses, Al Dhaheri intends to maintain the disciplined approach. “The goal is simple: work hard, give everything, and achieve the best results possible,” he said. “While every driver wants to win, being realistic and focusing on teamwork and consistency is just as important.”
Beyond his own title aspirations, Al Dhaheri hopes his form and track record serves as a catalyst for aspiring motorsports enthusiasts in the region. “Standing on the podium and raising the UAE flag means a lot to me,” he said.
“First, you need to have a goal, even if it sounds crazy and people laugh at it. But dreaming alone isn’t enough – you have to work extremely hard every single day, make sacrifices, and never give up. “I always recommend starting with karting and racing as much as possible. Come to races, watch, learn, ask questions – keep pushing,” he said.
