Qatar’s rally icon Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah once again asserted his dominance on the desert stages of Saudi Arabia, capturing the Hail Toyota International Baja Rally 2026 title for a record sixth time. The 21st edition of the event saw Al Attiyah deliver a measured yet commanding performance, reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers.
Navigated by French co-driver Max Delfino and piloting the OPTIMUS MD rally vehicle, Al Attiyah sealed victory after completing the final 323-kilometre special stage with a combined time of 4 hours, 6 minutes, and 32 seconds, topping the overall classification.
Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al Rajhi mounted a strong challenge but ultimately finished 42 seconds behind in second place, while fellow Saudi competitor Dania Akeel completed the podium, crossing the line 14 minutes adrift of the leader.
Qatar also featured prominently in the Challenger class, where Abdulaziz Al Kuwari secured third place. The category was led by Saudi driver Yasser Al Saeedan, with Oman’s Hamad Al Wahaibi finishing second.
In the motorcycle category, British rider Alex McInnes emerged victorious with a time of 4 hours, 55 minutes, and 17 seconds. Emirati rider Mohammed Al Balooshi claimed second place, followed by compatriot Sultan Al Balooshi in third.
The local category saw Saudi driver Faris Al Shammari take top honours, ahead of Muteb Al Qanoun in second, while Khalaf Al Waj’an rounded out the podium.
With yet another title added to his illustrious career, Al Attiyah’s latest triumph at Hail further cements his legacy as a dominant force in international cross-country rallying.
