Qatar hosts MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup, celebrating grassroots motorsport across the region
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, founder of the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup, has highlighted how the event will open new pathways for karting talent throughout the region as the 2025 edition gets underway in Qatar.
Organised by the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), this year’s championship once again brings the region’s karting scene into focus. The event begins with an opening ceremony on Thursday evening following two days of practice sessions, before racing commences on Friday and Saturday at the Lusail Karting Circuit.
Rising stars from across the Middle East and North Africa have gathered in Qatar for one of the world’s most significant regional karting competitions — a celebration of emerging talent and the next generation of international racers.
Now in its third edition hosted by Qatar, the 2025 championship boasts its largest entry list yet, with 173 drivers representing 18 nations, including Qatar, Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mauritania, Morocco, Iran, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
FIA President Ben Sulayem, who established the Nations Cup in 2020, said: “With growing numbers of participating countries, this year’s MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup represents the development of motorsport and new opportunities for karting talent across our region.
“My congratulations and thanks to QMMF and President Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai for hosting this milestone event. Good luck to all competitors, volunteers, staff, and officials. Your passion, dedication and teamwork allow this competition to thrive on the global stage.”
The competition features a diverse range of categories for young drivers to showcase their skills, including six Rotax Max Challenge classes for drivers aged eight and above, as well as R390 Sprint and R390 Endurance categories for participants aged 15 and over.
Last year’s edition saw Lebanon crowned champions, ahead of Morocco in second and the UAE in third. With an expanded grid and heightened anticipation, this year’s contest promises another thrilling weekend of racing, uniting personal ambition with national pride.
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of QMMF and Lusail International Circuit, said: “We are proud to once again host the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup, providing a platform for young drivers from across the region to develop their skills and passion for motorsport.
“We extend our gratitude to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his continued support and vision in promoting motorsport development. This championship is not only in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, but also highlights our ongoing commitment to support the growth of motorsport from the grassroots level, helping the next generation of talent reach their full potential.
“We wish all competitors, teams, and officials every success throughout the championship and thank marshals for their commitment and hard work.”
Spectators are set to enjoy the highly competitive championship in person at the circuit whilst fans across the world will be able to watch all of the racing action LIVE and FREE on the QMMF YouTube channel.