Abu Dhabi: Following a one-two finish for Kris Meeke and Mads Ostberg in Argentina last month, Citroen Total Abu Dhabi will now compete in the fifth round of the 13-stage World Rally Championship in Portugal from May 21 to 24.
“We go to Rally Portugal in high spirits after our one-two victory in Argentina,” said Shaikh Khalid Al Qassimi, who finished sixth in Argentina, to secure eight points in only his second start of the season.
“Rally Portugal is considered one of the most prestigious events in the World Rally Championship calendar with thousands attending and many people watching from around the world.
“This year’s edition is particularly exciting because we are officially unveiling our new look DS3 WRC cars and the Rally features all new stages. I have huge confidence in our team, they have vast experience in the World Rally Championship and I am hoping that with the new DS3 WRC we can repeat the Rally Argentina scenario and compete for first position.”
The 16-stage 352.09km Rally Portugal will also see Abu Dhabi Racing’s junior driver, Mohammad Al Mutawaa kick-off his Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) campaign in their Citroën DS3 R3-Max. Al Mutawaa is the first Emirati driver to participate in a full JWRC season.
“We decided at the end of last year to give Al Mutawaa the opportunity to participate in a full season of the JWRC,” said Shaikh Khalid Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Racing. “This was based on Al Mutawaa’s performance last year in the Middle East Rally Championship. Al Mutawaa performed very well in the 2WD category and has shown to great dedication and commitment to the Abu Dhabi Racing Team. Our initiative is based on building youth champions in the UAE and I hope Mohammad will take advantage of this opportunity.”
