Oman
International Drift Championship to Kick off This Thursday

Muscat,
13 Jan 2026 (ONA) — Oman International Drift Championship 2026, organized by Oman
Automobile Association (OAA), is set to launch this Thursday, 15 January. The
two-day event will be held at the Association’s headquarters as part of the
“Muscat Nights” festivities.

The
eyes of speed and thrill enthusiasts in the Sultanate of Oman and abroad are
turning toward the “Muscat Drift Arena” at the OAA headquarters,
where the first round of the championship will take place on Thursday and
Friday, 15 and 16 January.

Suleiman
Abdullah Al Rawahi, Director General of Oman Automobile Association, told Oman
News Agency: “The championship is considered one of the leading drifting
competitions globally in terms of professional organization, the highest safety
standards, and the massive fan attendance that fills the Association’s stands
every year. This has solidified Oman’s position as a regional and international
hub for motorsports.”

He
added: “This year’s edition features more than 50 contestants representing
over 20 countries, including elite world champions such as Ahmad Daham, Ali
Makhseed, and Clint van Oort, alongside talented local participants, such as prominent
Omani drivers Ahmed Al Amri, Haitham Al Hadidi and Ali Al Balushi.”

Al
Rawahi also noted that this edition will feature female competitors, a step
that reflects the significant development and diversity in drifting and
enhances the presence of women in international competitions.

The
Director General explained that the championship events will span two days; the
first day is dedicated to qualifiers, while the second day will witness the
grand finals amidst a highly competitive atmosphere, integrated logistical
preparations, and stands fully equipped to receive the crowds eager to follow
this prestigious global event.

He
emphasized that the OAA’s success in organizing major events like the Oman
International Drift Championship over the past years is a significant indicator
of the confidence placed in the Association’s team. He pointed out that the
Association has become the core and incubator for developing motorsports in
Oman, a success reflected in the organization and high turnout, qualifying the
Association to hold a prominent place on the regional and international
motorsports map.

“The
Oman Automobile Association has been keen to deliver a meaningful message to
the community by introducing the safe way to practice motorsports in designated
areas,” Al Rawahi stated. “Motorsports enjoy great popularity in
Oman, and the Association undertakes a vital role in hosting such events
according to recognized international standards, properly embracing the youth
and guiding them on how to organize such activities safely.”

He
further noted that the OAA continues its efforts to elevate motorsports in Oman
by organizing a range of local, regional, and international championships to
attract fans and encourage them to practice the sport safely.

—Ends/AG