New Tracking System for FIA Middle East Rally Championship

Introduction

Dubai, UAE, 19 December 2012: A sophisticated new tracking system designed to eliminate route deviations was tested successfully during the recent Dubai International Rally. This system will be used throughout next year’s FIA Middle East Championship starting in Qatar next month.

How the Tracking System Works

The tracking devices fitted onto rally cars will show when competitors stray off line by more than the ten-metre legal limit, allowing rally organisers to impose time penalties.

Benefits of the New System

The upgraded system has been developed to ensure a fairer level of competition. Realistic penalties will now replace harsher ones from previous years, allowing those who stray off line to remain in contention.

Approval and Support

The introduction of the new tracking system for the 2013 FIA Middle East Rally Championship has been approved by the World Motorsport Council as part of a series of measures to drive the regional series forward. These plans have been initiated by Dr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, organisers of the Dubai International Rally, and Vice President of the FIA, motor sport’s world governing body.

Upcoming Events

With the Qatar International Rally on 25-26 January launching the 2013 FIA regional series, Dr. Sulayem stated: “We hope that the steps we are taking to rebuild interest and attract more entries, especially from young Arab drivers, will mark the start of a new era for the championship.”

Driver Reactions

The new tracking system has been widely welcomed by drivers, including Qatar’s Nasser Al Attiyah, who retained his Middle East title with his sixth successive victory in Dubai. Al Attiyah commented:

“I think it works very well and is great for the championship moving forward. It’s important for all drivers to respect the system, and many are not entirely aware when they are cutting corners and what effect it has. Even I was guilty in this rally.”

FIA Middle East Rally Championship Calendar

• 25-26 January: Qatar International Rally
• 21-23 March: Kuwait International Rally
• 9-11 May: Jordan Rally
• 6-8 September: 36th Rally of Lebanon
• 3-5 October: Syrian International Rally (Candidate event for inclusion in 2014)
• 1-3 November: Cyprus Rally
• 28-30 November: Dubai International Rally