The World Rally Championship (WRC) makes its spectacular debut in Saudi Arabia this month, bringing electrifying rally action directly to the vibrant city of Jeddah. Drivers will tackle testing desert terrains during this high-stakes challenge, which spans between 25-29 November. Rally Saudi Arabia commences with a splendid parade of P1 cars, starting at the famed Jeddah Corniche and concluding dramatically at the ROSHN Waterfront. Consequently, the Jameel Motorsport Super Special Stage thrills expectant fans on Wednesday, November 26, setting the stage for the main event.
The Ultimate Desert Test
Ultimately, this WRC course presents an unparalleled test of skills behind the wheel, featuring a thrilling mix of wide-open desert roads and extremely rocky terrain. Therefore, it demands precise handling and enduring resilience from even the most expert drivers, experienced engineers, and seasoned crew members.
Initially, drivers and crew will navigate wide, flowing gravel roads, often encountering sweeping turns and dangerous blind crests. Furthermore, rougher and highly technical sections will rigorously test their precision driving and critically important tyre management skills.
Changing light conditions, shifting desert sand, and severely irregular terrain make visibility and surface grip remarkably unpredictable, especially late in the challenging competition loop. Consequently, high speeds significantly increase the inherent risks, as some unforgiving sections actively threaten severe tyre damage or potential suspension wear.
The Three Giants of WRC
Finally, the thrilling final round of the World Rally Championship features three powerhouse teams representing the absolute elite of global motorsport. These formidable teams collectively bring together a selection of the world’s top drivers and the most prominent names currently active in rallying.
Toyota Gazoo Racing
Reigning world champion Sébastien Ogier of France leads the dominant Toyota Gazoo Racing team with his steadfast co-driver Vincent Landis. The powerful lineup also includes Great Britain’s Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin, alongside the young Finnish sensation Kalle Rovanperä and Jon Haltunen. Additionally, Takamoto Katsuta of Japan and Aaron Johnston complete the formidable driver pairing. This consistent team already secured the manufacturers’ title before this final round, showcasing their undeniable force throughout the championship season.
M-Sport Ford
The British M-Sport Ford team participates with a diverse and highly compelling lineup for this significant Saudi debut. Their current drivers include Grégoire Munster and co-driver Luis Luca, Latvian Martins Sessex and Renars Francis, and Briton Josh McLaren and Owen Tracy. Crucially, five-time Dakar Rally champion, Qatari Nasser Al-Attiyah, joins the team with his experienced Spanish co-driver Cándido Carrera. Moreover, Al-Attiyah’s significant entry marks a major career moment after years of phenomenal, consistent success in cross-country racing.
Hyundai Shell Mobis
The Hyundai Shell Mobis team fields Belgian driver Thierry Neuville and Martin Widdeijk, alongside the Estonian driver Ott Tänak and Martin Järvoijka, and French driver Adrien Fourmeaux and Alexandre Correa. Hyundai fiercely competes for the top spots in this event, aiming to finish the challenging season strongly after experiencing a year marked by intense competition with both Toyota and Ford.
