Muscat: Oman International Drift Championship 2026, organized by the 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.
According to Oman News Agency, 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, stated that the championship is considered one of the leading drifting competitions globally in terms of professional organization, the highest safety standards, and 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 that 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 such as 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 turnover, qualifying the Association to hold a prominent place on the regional and international motorsports map.
Al Rawahi stated that 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. 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.
