Second stage of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge for cars and motorcycles begins Sunday

The second stage of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge will kick off on Sunday, 17 December, at the Liwa Desert in the Al Dhafra region, organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and in cooperation with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation (EMSO).

The Challenge is being held under the Abu Dhabi 360 umbrella, the initiative that encourages society to make sports part of their daily lifestyle, and across 4 stages, the first of which was held in Sweihan Hills, the second in Liwa, while the third and fourth will be conducted in early 2024 before the expected date of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge.

The second stage features 62 participants on cars, motorcycles, quads, and buggies. This group includes an elite group of racers from all over the world, particularly from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

The challenge focuses on developing talent and providing a platform for all members of society to participate, with the possibility of winning financial prizes that will help them continue to grow in this sport. It also plays an important role in refining experienced drivers’ skills and preparing them for future participation in international forums.

His Excellency Suhail Al Areefi, Executive Director - Events Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “We are proud to work with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation and look forward to a distinguished second phase of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge with the great participation of motorsport fans.”

He added: "The Council aims to translate its vision and ideas into reality, by organising the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge, which provides the opportunity for fans and enthusiasts of motor and speed sports to compete in a safe atmosphere, and by following the highest safety standards, we wish safety and success to all."

For his part, His Excellency Salem Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO) Executive Committee, said: “After a successful first event, round two of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge promises to take the series to new levels as we head for the spectacular Liwa Desert with its daunting dunes. We are confident that the series will grow to become a real grassroots development platform capable of playing a pivotal role in fostering an excellent entry-level opportunity for sport amateurs to have a taste of what they could achieve at a real competitive level and also in elevating the overall professionalism of the sport. This series is a great platform for both seasoned competitors and passionate amateurs to converge.

“I want to extend my gratitude to the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the driving force behind this event, and the Abu Dhabi 360 initiative for their unwavering support, and my thanks go also to our team at EMSO for their tireless effort in continually raising the bar.” 

He concluded: “Together, we are shaping a future where motorsports not only captivates the hearts of enthusiasts but also fosters a culture of excellence and professionalism within the sport.”