Young Emirati racing driver prepares for the UAE’s new Formula Gulf Championship

Young Emirati racing driver prepares for the UAE’s new Formula Gulf Championship

This is the first time a championship of this type has been launched in the region, aimed at young drivers, it is the first step for drivers to race a Formula 1 style car.

July 7, 2010 3:42 by Rasha Reslan

Dubai, July 7 2010 - Haytham Sultan Al Ali, is a talented young Emirati sportsman with his sights firmly set on a professional motor sports career.

The inaugural Formula Gulf 1000 Championship, due to commence early October this year, will provide him with a unique opportunity to enter the first development stage of Formula racing in the UAE.

Haytham, who works for Abu Dhabi Police, is an active sportsman and has represented the UAE already in various Cycling Championships; he hopes that his approach to fitness and competitive nature will stand him in good stead as he climbs the challenging ladder of motorsport.

“I am an aspiring 20 year old racing driver with a great passion for sport. I have loved cars and racing since I was a child, this is now my opportunity to progress, I’m aware this is going to be a big new challenge and I am fully prepared for the hard work ahead.”

Haytham has successfully competed in several karting races in UAE and abroad. In the competitive championships in Dubai, he secured three podium positions in his first season of racing.

“A few years ago I got the opportunity to race Karts and took to it quite naturally. I started training hard and going to the kart track at every opportunity to practice and improve my skills.”

Haytham has campaigned successfully in two 24hr endurance events, and in April this year, out of 40 International teams, his four man team lead by Sheikh Hasher Al Maktoum, secured a commendable third place overall.

“The new opportunities for racing drivers have really opened up now that we have the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, and as an Emirati It is my dream to represent my country at this level.”

This is the first time a championship of this type has been launched in the region, aimed at young drivers, it is the first step for drivers to race a Formula 1 style car.

“I have a real passion for this sport, the determination and the will to win. I am now talking to everyone to help me raise the profile of motor racing in the country and I hope that one day I will be able to bring home some podium places for the UAE in motorsports.” he concluded