Muscat: From karting tracks to regional rally podiums, Omani racer Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al-Rawahi has built a motorsport career defined by steady progress, major milestones and an ambition to take Oman further onto the international racing stage.

His latest achievement came with a first-place finish in the fifth round of the Jordan National Rally, adding another victory to a career that began with karting in 2004.

Speaking to the Oman News Agency, Al-Rawahi said his passion for motorsport began during childhood and developed over the years before he made the transition to rallying in 2018.

He said rallying requires much more than speed, demanding intense concentration, accurate road reading, close coordination between the driver and navigator and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.

Since entering the sport, Al-Rawahi said his goal has been to continuously improve his performance while representing the Sultanate of Oman in the best possible way.

One of the biggest milestones of his career was winning the Middle East Rally Championship, becoming the first Omani driver and the youngest competitor to achieve the feat.

Al-Rawahi said the achievement was not only a personal milestone but also one he was proud to accomplish in the name of Oman, giving him further motivation to compete at higher regional and international levels.

He added that every rally has contributed to his experience and development as a driver. Among the moments he particularly values is the recognition he received from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for his sporting achievements.

Al-Rawahi said representing Oman at sporting events and seeing the national flag alongside those of other countries brings both pride and a strong sense of responsibility.

Highlighting the potential of rallying in Oman, he said the Sultanate has a strong history in motorsport, along with diverse terrain and roads that make it well suited for hosting rally events. He also pointed to the growing passion for motorsport among Omani youth.

However, he stressed that further development of the sport requires more local championships and events, as well as greater opportunities for young drivers to participate regularly and gain experience.

According to Al-Rawahi, Oman has no shortage of talent, but reaching advanced levels requires continuity, proper training and regular participation in competitions.

He also highlighted the role of the Oman Automobile Association in developing motorsports by organising championships and creating an environment that allows aspiring drivers to enter the sport.

Al-Rawahi called for a clear development pathway for young racers, beginning with karting and local championships before progressing to rallies and eventually regional and international competitions.

He said identifying talent is only the first step, with sustained support, guidance and competitive opportunities essential to helping young drivers develop.

One of the biggest challenges remains the high cost of motorsport. Al-Rawahi said drivers require substantial resources for vehicle preparation and maintenance, training, technical support, travel and participation in championships.

Support for emerging talent, he added, should therefore extend beyond financial backing to include specialised coaching, suitable vehicles and facilities, as well as opportunities to compete and build experience.

Sponsors have played a key role in Al-Rawahi’s own career, allowing him to continue competing at higher levels and gain experience alongside drivers and teams from different countries.

He said sponsor support has also provided confidence and motivation, enabling him to focus more closely on competition, preparation and professional development.

Al-Rawahi stressed that his achievements are the result of cooperation between the driver, team, sponsors and everyone who has supported his journey.

Looking ahead, he hopes to use his experience to support young Omani drivers and pass on the knowledge he has gained through competition.

He said true success would not be measured by one Omani driver reaching the international stage, but by developing an entire generation capable of competing and raising the Omani flag in major championships.

Al-Rawahi added that his ambitions extend beyond any single achievement, with his focus remaining on improving his performance, competing at the highest possible level and strengthening Oman’s presence in regional and international motorsport.

He expressed hope that the coming years will see more Omani drivers competing internationally and greater opportunities for emerging talents to enter the sport and build sustainable careers in motorsport.