In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, Al-Futtaim Motors has announced a groundbreaking development that's set to redefine the country's motorsport scene. The renowned automotive company is launching a dedicated Motorsport Division, signalling its unwavering commitment to all aspects of motorsport, whether it's on the race track, off-road, or even in the virtual world of esports racing.
A New Era of Motorsport
Launch of the new Al-Futtaim Motorsport Division is not just about making headlines; it's about putting their words into action. This division will oversee the prestigious Toyota Gazoo Racing and Lexus F Performance brands in the UAE. These brands are synonymous with high-performance vehicles, including the legendary Toyota GR Supra, the rugged Toyota Land Cruiser GR Sport, and the sleek Lexus RC F and GS F. Let's not forget the iconic LFA, which has left a lasting mark on the world of supercars.
A Glorious Racing Heritage
When you talk about Toyota and motorsport, you're delving into five decades of triumphs and iconic moments. Toyota has excelled in renowned competitions like the World Rally Championship, Formula One, FIA Cross Country World Cup, and the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. From the championship-winning Toyota Yaris GR WRC to the indomitable Toyota Hilux conquering the Dakar Rally and other gruelling races, Toyota has consistently embodied the spirit of motorsport at its zenith.
Lexus: A Legacy of Excellence
Lexus has etched its name in the annals of motorsport history. Their journey began in 2002 at the historic Daytona 24-hour race, where they made an unforgettable entrance. Between 2006 and 2008, Lexus cars clinched three consecutive victories in the 24 Hours at Daytona. In the UAE, Lexus ventured into motorsport by crafting the world's first Lexus RC F drift car, which made its global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2019. The brand also launched the first Lexus F Club for F and F SPORT owners. Lexus has since thrived across various motorsport disciplines, from GT3 and GT4 series to endurance racing, hill climbs, off-road rallies, drifting, and beyond.
Supporting the Local Motorsport Community
The Al-Futtaim Motorsport Division isn't just about big names and high-performance vehicles. It's about nurturing the UAE's motorsport community. Through strategic partnerships with esteemed local sporting events such as the UAE Autocross Challenge, the Dubai International Baja, and the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, Al-Futtaim Motorsport Division is actively promoting and supporting grassroots motorsport. Moreover, they're committed to cultivating talent through initiatives like the Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy, a driver development program that kicked off earlier this year.
Meet the Driving Force
Ensuring the success of this new division is a dedicated team led by Alaa Tarawneh, the Motorsport Manager at Al-Futtaim Toyota and Lexus. Their mission is clear: spearheading Al-Futtaim's drive to support motorsports in the Emirates and raising awareness about the exceptional performance of Toyota GR and Lexus F Performance models.
An Exciting Calendar Ahead
The Al-Futtaim Motorsport Division's calendar is packed with thrilling events. It starts with support for the UAE's participation in the Toyota Gazoo Racing MENA Esports Cup, where the top two competitors will qualify for the regional finals in Amman, Jordan, in October. Following this, the division is set to partner with several motoring events in the UAE, including the Dubai International Baja and the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, with more exciting collaborations soon to be announced. In addition, the division will be launching the second edition of the Al-Futtaim Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy later this year, building on the success of its inaugural edition.
Al-Futtaim Motors is not merely a name in the automotive industry; it's a driving force in the world of motorsport in the UAE. With the launch of the Al-Futtaim Motorsport Division, they are poised to leave an indelible mark on the local motorsport community and showcase the power and precision of Toyota GR and Lexus F Performance models. Buckle up, UAE, for an exhilarating journey into the world of motorsport, led by the passion and commitment of Al-Futtaim Motors.
A word from Al-Futtaim UAE officials
Jacques Brent, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Toyota and Lexus, said, “Al-Futtaim Motors has always been deeply committed to motorsports in the Emirates, and this new division reinforces this commitment with a new team entirely dedicated to supporting and developing motorsports across the UAE. In a nation that is so passionate about motoring, the Toyota and Lexus brands have become an integral part of the motoring and off-roading culture of the UAE. The Al-Futtaim Motorsport division empowers us to further develop this culture and our historic ties with the UAE’s motoring communities, and engage and give back to them by developing and supporting local events and driving talent.”
