Oman Rally Team’s Al Rawahi and Al Hmoud face first JWRC test
Sweden is a new challenge for us, snow. We actually had a test day in Norway last week.
Umea, Sweden - The Oman Rally Team duo of Abdullah al Rawahi and Ata al Hmoud are set to take part in this year’s five-round FIA Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) and the opening round sees them heading to Scandinavia for this weekend’s world-famous Rally Sweden.
The only traditional snow rally in the WRC calendar moved north to the city of Umea in 2022 and the crew will tackle 18 special stages in a traditional winter wonderland with snow-covered stages and the use of studded tyres a necessity.
Drivers traditionally lean their cars against the snow banks to obtain the best line through the fast-flowing forest stages. The tyres provide remarkable grip but drivers must adjust their driving style and braking points accordingly in the sub-zero temperatures.
All crews taking part in the
JWRC use identical M-sport Poland Ford Fiesta Rally3 cars running on Pirelli tyres. The series is open to drivers under the age of 29 who have not competed as a Priority 1 driver in a WRC event.
Al Rawahi said: “Sweden is a new challenge for us, snow. We actually had a test day in Norway last week. It went really well. Obviously, it is new terrain. Our aim is to do our best in this rally. There is going to be very challenging competition in the JWRC. We are aiming to finish all the rallies to gain experience. If we do an amazing result, then that is a bonus. The first year is about learning the stages and learning the car. I think we will be quite comfortable. I am very excited to be honest to be racing in the World Rally Championship.”
Co-driver Al Hmoud said: “It is fantastic that Abdullah is participating in this category. It is good for him to go outside the Middle East to compete with others and to see new stages. It is an excellent step for him.”
It went really well. Obviously, it is new terrain. Our aim is to do our best... ABDULLAH AL RAWAHI