Qatar International Rally Launches Historic Qualifying Stage

The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) has introduced a new Qualifying Stage for the upcoming Qatar International Rally, marking a significant milestone in rallying within the Middle East. This innovative change aligns with the FIA’s updated Regional Rally Sporting Regulations, which now include provisions for free practice and qualifying stages, following the recent implementation of a Shakedown in Oman.

Revised Itinerary for the Rally

The Qatar International Rally, set to take place as the second round of the 2026 FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC), features a comprehensive revision to its pre-event schedule. The press conference will now occur on Tuesday evening, while Thursday will see an action-packed series of events leading up to the rally.

On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Rally2 entrants will have the opportunity to participate in a 75-minute practice session on the newly designed 5.56km Qualifying Stage at Al-Khor, starting at 10:00 hours. Each crew will be allowed a maximum of two passes through the stage, which will subsequently determine the starting order for the first leg of the rally.

The qualifying runs will begin at 11:45 hours, with the slowest driver from the session taking the lead as the first Rally2 entrant on the road during Friday’s gravel stages. The starting intervals for these crews will be set at two minutes, based on their championship standings following the Oman International Rally.

Shakedown and Ceremonial Start

Following the Qualifying Stage, non-Rally2 vehicles will also have a chance to participate in a Shakedown on the Al-Khor stage from 12:30 hours, where they will be allowed two passes during a 1 hour 45-minute session.

The ceremonial start will take place at the Lusail International Circuit at 18:00 hours, a slight shift from the initial schedule that removed the original super special stage from the itinerary. This adjustment aims to enhance the spectator experience and streamline the event.

Among the participants is Saudi driver Hamza Bakhashab, who will compete alongside his Irish co-driver Lorcan Moore in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2. The duo recently finished eighth in the Oman International Rally, having restarted under the Rally2 regulations after encountering mechanical issues on the first day.

The Qatar International Rally will be conducted under the leadership of QMMF President Abdulrahman Al-Mannai, along with senior committee member Abdulrazaq Al-Kuwari and the QMMF’s Executive Director Amro Al-Hamad. Administration checks are scheduled to take place at the Lusail International Circuit tomorrow, setting the stage for a thrilling rally weekend.