Doha, Qatar – The second round of the Arabian Drag Racing League (ADRL) concluded at the Qatar Racing Club (QRC) this weekend, showcasing intense competition and attracting a significant number of spectators. Elite racers from across the Gulf region, wider Middle East, and the United States participated in eleven championship categories, vying for top honors in the thrilling motorsport. The event highlighted the growing popularity of drag racing in the region and featured both seasoned professionals and emerging talents.
The competition, held under the patronage of QRC Chairman H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani, saw several new champions crowned across various classes. The QRC General Manager, Sheikh Jabor bin Khalid Al Thani, presented awards to the podium finishers, recognizing their achievements in the high-octane sport. This round builds on the success of the opening event and continues to establish the ADRL as a premier racing series.
Arabian Drag Racing League: Round 2 Results and Highlights
The Index car categories delivered particularly close racing. Abdul Latif Abdul Latif emerged victorious in the INDEX 9.0 class, defeating defending champion Sulaiman Al-Sannousi in a nail-biting final. Nasser Al-Khader secured his first podium finish of the championship, rounding out the top three.
Adel Ghanem celebrated a breakthrough win in the INDEX 8.50 category, triumphing over Hussein Ashkanani in his debut final appearance. Ashkanani, demonstrating consistent performance, secured his second podium of the season with a third-place finish, while Mohammed Suleiman Al-Shatti took third.
Eighth-Mile and Pro Mod Action
Competition was equally fierce in the eighth-mile Index categories. Tareq Al-Bastaki dominated the INDEX 4.0 class, defeating Hussein Abdul Rahim Ahmed in the final, with Rashid Al-Balushi finishing third. Abdulaziz Al-Saleh claimed the INDEX 4.50 title, narrowly beating Saeed Al-Balushi, who finished second. Sean Langdon achieved his first podium finish, taking third place.
Zayed Al-Balushi secured the win in the INDEX 4.80 category, followed by Nawaf Al-Khaldi in second and Sheikh Jabor bin Hassan in third. Pro Mod racer Mike Stavrinous continued his winning streak, securing his second consecutive title after qualifying in the top position and maintaining a flawless run to the final, where he defeated Saeed Al-Balushi. American racer JR Gray, a former NHRA Pro Mod champion, finished third.
Super Street and Motorcycle Champions
The Super Street Pro category saw a repeat of the first round’s final, with Yousuf Al Ali once again claiming victory over Jaber Al-Maghribi, while Abdulwahab Saleem finished third. Mustafa Atat also continued his success, winning the Super Street Outlaw category for the second consecutive round, with Badr Al-Sharshani and Mohammed Kafoud finishing second and third respectively.
Motorcycle racing added another layer of excitement to the event. Mohammed Al-Awad achieved his first podium finish, winning the Pro Bike title after defeating Mishaal Al-Sabr. Bradley McCoy, the previous round’s champion, secured third place. In the Super Street Bike category, Mohammed Bu Rashid claimed his first championship title, overcoming Mishari Al-Marri in the final. Mustafa Mahmoudi won the Street Bike category, defeating Ahmed Karam, while Dawood Al-Sharshani finished third.
The event showcased the increasing level of skill and competition within the Arabian motorsport scene, attracting a diverse range of participants and spectators. The QRC continues to invest in facilities and events to promote racing and provide a platform for regional talent.
The third round of the Arabian Drag Racing League is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, continuing the championship battle. Organizers will be looking to maintain the momentum generated by the first two rounds and further elevate the profile of drag racing in the region. The performance of returning champions and the emergence of new contenders will be key factors to watch in the upcoming races.
