52nd Cyprus International Rally determines the Middle East champion

The 52nd Cyprus International Rally, serving as the fifth and final round of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship, is underway from October 23 to 25, 2026. The event features 30 crews representing eight countries. It serves as the deciding stage for the regional championship title, with Qatar’s Nasser Al-Attiyah, the competition’s most successful driver with nine prior wins, currently leading the standings. The rally commenced on Friday evening at Europe Square in Larnaca.

Following the opening day of racing on Saturday, October 24, Nasser Al-Attiyah and co-driver Cándido Carrera hold a lead of 53 seconds over Cypriot driver Simos Galatariotis, despite both teams suffering tire punctures in the final special stage. Oman’s Abdullah Al-Rawahi holds third place, remaining in contention for the overall championship title. The competition, which encompasses 184 competitive kilometers across 12 gravel stages in the Troodos mountains, sees local crews like Panagiotis Yiangou and various international participants competing for honors.

The final results and the coronation of the Middle East Rally Champion will take place on Sunday, October 25, at 17:00 in Larnaca. The event is organized by the Cyprus Automobile Association, continuing a tradition that began in 1970.