YANBU, Saudi Arabia — Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud Al-Saud and Meshal Khalaf Al-Shammari have been confirmed as winners of the second season of the Saudi Next Gen motorsport development program, earning qualification to compete in the Dakar Rally 2027. The announcement was made on Sunday by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation.
The Saudi Next Gen program is a national talent development initiative designed to identify and prepare Saudi drivers and navigators for elite rally-raid competition. Participants undergo a series of technical, navigational, and physical assessments that replicate the conditions faced in international rally events.
Prince Abdulaziz competed as a driver, with Al-Shammari serving as navigator. Their combined performance across the program’s evaluation stages placed them at the top of the field, securing their place as Saudi representatives for a future Dakar Rally entry.
Prince Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdullah bin Faisal, chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, stated that the program is part of a long-term strategy to establish a structured pathway for Saudi athletes to progress from domestic development initiatives into professional international motorsport. He confirmed that similar programs will continue to support local talent in the coming years.
The Dakar Rally is one of the world’s most demanding motorsport competitions, featuring multi-stage racing across desert terrain. Since relocating to Saudi Arabia, the event has become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s international sporting calendar, offering Saudi athletes direct exposure to world-class competition.
Prince Abdulaziz and Al-Shammari will now begin long-term preparation aimed at competing in the Dakar Rally 2027, with training expected to focus on endurance, navigation, and vehicle performance.