Cyprus hosts the 52nd international rally to decide the Middle East championship title

The 52nd Cyprus International Rally is scheduled to take place from October 23 to 25, 2026, marking the fifth and final round of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship. Organized by the Cyprus Automobile Association, the event features 30 crews representing eight different countries. The competition will serve as the deciding factor for this year's regional title.

Contenders for the championship include Qatar's Nasser Al-Attiyah, a 20-time champion leading with 70 points in a Skoda Fabia, and 22-year-old Saudi driver Hamza Bakhashab, who currently holds 66 points in a Toyota Yaris. Other key participants include Qatar's Nasser Khalifa Al-Atya and 2024 champion Abdullah Al-Rawahi from Oman, both closely trailing in the standings. Local favorites, such as multiple-time Cypriot champion Simos Galatariotis and last year’s national champion Panagiotis Yiangou, are also expected to challenge for the overall rally win.

The event begins with a ceremonial start on Friday, October 23, at 18:00 at Europe Square in Larnaca. The final stage concludes at the same venue on Sunday, October 25, at 17:00, where the official crowning of the Middle East Rally Champion will take place.