Doha, Qatar – The first half of the 2026 Arabian Drag Racing League (ADRL) season concluded at the Qatar Racing Club (QRC) drag strip with a record number of competitors and several racers claiming their first titles. The event, held under the patronage of QRC Chairman H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani, showcased intense competition across 11 categories, solidifying Qatar’s position as a hub for motorsports in the region. This latest round of drag racing saw eight new champions crowned, signaling a dynamic shift in the championship standings.
The third round of the ADRL series attracted over 170 participants, representing the Gulf region, the wider Middle East, and the United States. Elite racers battled for supremacy in both quarter-mile and eighth-mile index categories, as well as specialized bike classes. The QRC’s facilities were utilized to their fullest, hosting a diverse range of vehicles and skill levels.
New Faces Emerge in Arabian Drag Racing League Competition
The Index categories, known for their precision and strategy, were particularly active in producing new winners. In the INDEX 9.0 class, Majed Al-Sharshani secured his first title of the season, defeating Mohammed Al-Thuwaini. Al-Thuwaini, despite the loss, earned his second podium finish of the year, demonstrating consistent performance. Mohammed Al-Ansari also joined the podium ranks in this category, marking a successful debut for several competitors.
Yousef Al-Faraj and Khaled Humaidan faced off in the INDEX 8.50 final, both reaching the deciding race for the first time this season. Al-Faraj ultimately prevailed, taking the win and leaving Humaidan in second place. The eighth-mile Index categories also saw a changing of the guard, with only the INDEX 4.0 class remaining consistent, as Tareq Al-Bastaki claimed his second consecutive victory, besting Rashid Al-Balushi in the final.
Pro and Street Class Highlights
Beyond the Index categories, the professional and street classes delivered equally thrilling results. JR Gray, the 2025 NHRA Pro Mod champion, finally broke through to the winner’s circle, defeating Rashid Al-Balushi in the final after previous rounds saw him in third place. Jaber Al-Maghribi also secured his first championship title in the Super Street Pro category, overcoming Nabil Al-Issa in a closely contested final.
Mustafa Atat continued his dominant run in the Super Street Outlaw class, achieving a perfect three-for-three record in the first half of the championship. His consistent performance highlights the level of skill and dedication within the ADRL. The competition in street racing and pro mod classes was particularly fierce, attracting significant attention from fans and sponsors.
Bike Category Champions Crowned
The bike categories provided a spectacular display of speed and agility. Christopher Garner emerged victorious in the most powerful bike class, defeating Mishaal Al-Sabr in the final. Garner’s win came after Al-Sabr had previously finished third and second in the opening rounds. Badr bin Eidan claimed the Super Street Bike title, defeating Mishari Al-Turki, while Mustafa Al-Mahmoudi secured his second title of the season in the Street Bike category, winning against Mohammed Al-Salem.
QRC Director General Sheikh Jabor bin Khalid Al Thani presented the trophies to the winners and runners-up, recognizing their achievements and contributions to the sport. The event underscored the QRC’s commitment to fostering motorsport excellence and providing a platform for regional and international talent.
The fourth round of the Arabian Drag Racing League is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, continuing the intense battle for championship supremacy. Competitors will be looking to build on their momentum from the first half of the season, while others will aim to climb the rankings. The ongoing series will be closely watched to see if Atat can maintain his perfect record and if any new challengers will emerge in the remaining rounds.
