Historic third world title for Balooshi highlights success of Dubai Baja

The Dubai International Baja 2024 came to an exhilarating end this weekend, delivering unforgettable moments as champions were crowned in a celebration of motorsport excellence.

From the tranquil mountains of Hatta, where the event began with a qualifying stage, to the extremely demanding and hard to read sands of Al Qudra, this year’s Baja showcased the UAE’s diverse landscapes alongside world-class motorsport action.

UAE rider Mohammed Al Balooshi thrilled home fans by securing his third FIM Bajas World Cup title and made history by becoming the first rider in the Arab world to achieve such a milestone.

With a calculated performance, the UAE hero finished second in the event but topping the championship standings. He shared the stage with Poland’s Konrad Dabrowski, who claimed the Dubai event win on his KTM 450, and Sultan Al Balooshi, who earned third.

“It’s an incredible feeling to win my third World Cup title,” said Balooshi. “Racing on home soil during the UAE’s National Day celebrations makes this even more special. I’m grateful to everyone who supported me and made this possible.”

In the FIA Baja World Cup, Portugal’s Joao Ferreira secured the championship title in the cars category with a strong second-place finish in Dubai. The event itself was dominated by Nasser Al Attiyah of Qatar, who clinched his record-breaking 13th Dubai International Baja victory.

“Dubai is always a special place to race,” said Attiyah. “The competition is fierce, but the organization and atmosphere make it unforgettable every time.”

The event concluded with the Zayed and Rashid Stage 3, named in honour of the historic 1968 meeting that laid the foundation for the UAE. Competitors tackled 195km of timed sections, navigating technical dunes that tested even the most seasoned racers.

Throughout the three-day event, competitors completed a gruelling 867km of racing, beginning with a scenic prologue in Hatta before moving to the dunes of Al Qudra. This unique blend of terrain underscored the event’s status as one of the most challenging and celebrated on the international Baja calendar.

Quads, Women’s, and Emerging Stars:

The UAE’s Abdulaziz Ahli shone in the Quads category, taking a dominant victory. Meanwhile, Poland’s Joanna Modrzewska secured the Women’s championship title after a season of consistent performances.

Dubai-based Briton Alex McInnes delivered an impressive ride through the dunes, clocking the fastest time on Stage 3. Though earlier penalties cost him a podium finish, his performance highlighted the depth of talent on display.

Celebrating 45 Years of Motorsport Legacy:

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and organized by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO) in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the Baja is supported by Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota, Energy Partner ENOC, and the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, RTA and Dubai Municipality. The event also counts with the support of Aquafina as their Hydration Partner.

“This event exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to motorsport,” said Mahir Badri, CEO of the Emirates Motorsport Organization. “From the incredible landscapes of Hatta to the challenging sands of Al Qudra, this year’s Baja has been a true celebration of our country’s heritage and sporting excellence.”

As the sun sets on the 2024 season, the Dubai International Baja leaves behind a legacy of breathtaking competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.