The Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation has announced the launch of the first edition of the “Saudi Next Gen” program for 2025, aimed at supporting and empowering promising Saudi talents in motorsport. Five outstanding Saudi drivers have been selected to participate in this initiative, including Dr. Fatma Al-Zahraa Banaz.
Dr. Banaz is a valuable addition to the program. Beyond being a talented rally driver, she is also a consultant in ear, nose, throat, head, and neck surgery, specializing in advanced endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. She currently serves as Head of the Research and Studies Unit and Supervisor of the Specialty at the First Health Cluster in Jeddah.
Speaking about her passion for motorsport, Dr. Banaz said: “My love for rallying began in my early childhood, as my passion for the desert, sand dunes, and the spirit of challenge shaped this hobby.”
Her participation in the program comes as a continuation of her rallying journey, having competed as a driver in the Rally Jameel for three consecutive editions and representing the Lexus Racing Team in the third edition of the rally.
In addition to her achievements as a driver, Dr. Banaz brings extensive medical expertise to motorsport. She served as Head of the Medical Team and Air Evacuation Unit at the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation during local rallies in 2024 (Rally Tabuk, Hail, and Qassim). She was also a member of the medical crew at the GT Endurance Race 2024 and the Formula Race at Jeddah Corniche Circuit in 2023, and has actively volunteered with the Barq Rescue Team for off-road vehicle recovery.
Training and Preparation Journey
The five selected drivers took part for the first time in the Dakar Saudi Arabia Rally 2025, hosted by the Kingdom for the sixth consecutive year. They were chosen during the Rally Qassim, one of the rounds of the Saudi Rally Championship.
Participants underwent intensive training in the city of Bisha between December 31 and January 5, 2025, under the supervision of former driver Ido Mussi. The program included both theoretical and practical sessions, along with comprehensive field tests on board a Yamaha SSV vehicle, covering the prologue stage and completing two stages in desert rally style.
Supervised by the Ministry of Sports, the program aims to support Saudi youth and provide opportunities for the nation’s future champions—both men and women—to compete in motorsport. Participants will also benefit from the expertise of seasoned Saudi rally professionals, who will help prepare them for participation in both local and international competitions.
