Saudi Arabia’s rising motorsport star Orjwan Ammar is preparing for the rally 2024 Qassim, aiming for a podium finish after her strong debut last year

Saudi Arabia’s trailblazing female rally driver, Orjwan Ammar, is revving up for a return to the racing spotlight as she prepares to tackle the 2024 Qassim Rally. After earning a remarkable second-place finish in the T4 “Side by Side” category at the Saudi Toyota Championship last year, Ammar is determined to build on her impressive debut as she competes in this prestigious off-road event. Set to navigate 367 kilometres of challenging desert terrain, Ammar will be joined by her co-driver, Khalid Al-Kindi from the UAE, in this year’s edition of the rally, which runs from October 23 to 26.

This year’s Qassim Rally is expected to be as gruelling as ever, taking participants through the vast open deserts surrounding the city of Buraydah. Organised by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, the three-day event will pit competitors against the elements, testing their endurance, skill, and adaptability.

For Ammar, this race is not just about winning; it’s about solidifying her place as a prominent figure in Saudi motorsport. “The race is a big challenge,” Ammar shared in a recent interview. “But with determination and adaptability, I’m ready to face any difficulties and demonstrate my driving skills.” Ammar is more than eager to secure a strong finish and, ideally, land on the podium once again.

But her mission goes beyond personal achievement. Ammar is passionate about using her platform to inspire other young women in Saudi Arabia and across the Arab world. Her goal is to show that they too can break into traditionally male-dominated fields and excel. “I hope my journey proves to other women that they can take part in motorsports, no matter the odds,” Ammar stated confidently. In a country where women have only recently begun driving, Ammar’s presence on the racing circuit is both symbolic and revolutionary.

Her debut performance at the Saudi Toyota Championship in Tabuk, where she narrowly missed first place, showcased her natural talent and strong will. It was a pivotal moment not only for Ammar but for the growing community of women interested in motorsports in the Kingdom. Now, all eyes are on her as she aims to push her limits and raise the bar even higher.

While rally driving is often viewed as a battle between man and machine, the Qassim Rally poses another set of challenges: the harsh desert landscape. With shifting sands and unpredictable weather conditions, competitors will need more than technical skills; they will require endurance, quick thinking, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. For Ammar and Al-Kindi, teamwork will be crucial as they navigate the various stages of the race.

In preparing for the Qassim Rally, Ammar has focused on refining her driving technique, enhancing her vehicle’s capabilities, and mentally preparing for the long, gruelling hours ahead. “Every rally is different,” she remarked. “You never know what challenges you will face, but I believe in my ability to adapt to whatever comes my way.”

For the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, the rally represents more than just a competition. It’s a platform to showcase Saudi Arabia’s growing motorsport culture and the increasing participation of women in this field. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and promote gender equality, has played a significant role in breaking down barriers for women like Ammar, who are now able to pursue careers in sports that were previously inaccessible to them.

The federation has expressed pride in Ammar’s achievements, seeing her as a symbol of progress and possibility for the country’s burgeoning motorsport scene. The organisers are hoping her participation will inspire more women to take up racing and other sports, further challenging societal norms and expanding opportunities for the next generation.

As the Qassim Rally fast approaches, excitement is building among motorsport fans and participants alike. Ammar’s journey from her debut to this point has been nothing short of remarkable, and her determination to excel in a demanding sport like rally racing is a testament to her passion, skill, and commitment to breaking barriers.

“I am excited to be part of the Qassim Rally and aim for a podium finish,” Ammar told Arab News, reflecting on her ambitions for the upcoming event. With the support of her co-driver Al-Kindi and the lessons learned from her debut, Ammar stands poised to make yet another strong impression on the motorsport world.

This year’s Qassim Rally promises to be a test of skill, resilience, and determination. And for Ammar, it’s not just about crossing the finish line but continuing to pave the way for others. As the dust settles in the desert of Buraydah, one thing is clear: Orjwan Ammar is a name that will continue to resonate in Saudi Arabia’s motorsport history.