Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, an authorised distributor of Toyota vehicles in Saudi Arabia for nearly 70 years, and the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) have opened the Gazoo Racing (GR) Saudi Driving School. 

 

The temporary school will open between August 15 and 20, 2023, located at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit parking lot. With a staggering 2,000 registrations, 60 were shortlisted, where 20 participants are from Jeddah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region each. Notably, the inclusion of nine female participants demonstrates the increasing interest to venture into motorsports.

 

The GR Saudi Driving School is more than a training ground; it's a visionary platform designed to identify, nurture, and elevate the next generation of racers for the GR Saudi Team in four exciting disciplines: Time Attack, Hill Climb, Drift, and Autocross. After a rigorous two-day training program, five students from each region will be shortlisted, making a total of 15 students. These 15 will then undergo a final training and assessment at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Out of these, four exceptional racers will be chosen to represent the GR Saudi Team, marking their entry into the esteemed Saudi Toyota Championship.

 

Discovering talent

Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, said: “With 60 participants, the GR Saudi Driving School is not just about discovering talent; it's about shaping the future of motorsports in Saudi Arabia. In line with Vision 2030, we are creating a holistic ecosystem that identifies and nurtures talent, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for motorsports. We believe in the potential of our youth, and this initiative is a testament to our commitment to providing opportunities for aspiring drivers to showcase their skills on national and international platforms.”

 

The meticulously designed five-day programme will be facilitated by renowned driving instructors: Abdullah Bakhashab, Paul Spooner, and Hatim Natto. Their combined expertise ensures participants receive unparalleled guidance, elevating their potential. The program culminates at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, simulating real racing conditions and setting the stage for the final test.

 

Hassan Jameel, Chairman of the Board of Managers of Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, said: “The GR Saudi Driving School exemplifies Abdul Latif Jameel Motors’ commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership. The initiative is more than just a school; it's a platform that empowers and shapes the next generation of racers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to compete and excel on the world stage. 

 

Crucial step

“Our collaboration with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation represents a crucial step towards discovering and nurturing untapped talent in Saudi Arabia and contributing to the quality of life in the kingdom as part of its Vision 2030 goals. We are excited about the prospects of the GR Saudi Driving School and are confident that it will pave the way for an even brighter future in motorsports."

 

The four winners will compete in their respective disciplines, which include: Autocross, Drift, Time Attack, and Hill Climb. Autocross involves racing against time on a circuit with a specific track and cones. Drivers must follow safety rules and reach the finish line in the shortest time possible. Drift racing emphasises car control and style, with drivers intentionally oversteering to slide through corners and earning points for speed, angle, line, style, and flair. Time Attack is similar to Autocross but takes place on a longer circuit. Finally, in Hill Climb, drivers race uphill on an asphalt road for 3 km to complete the race in the shortest time possible.

 

Each discipline offers unique challenges and opportunities for racers to showcase their prowess. The collaboration between Abdul Latif Jameel Motors and SAMF contributes to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030’s 'Quality of Life' program by empowering the youth and shaping the future of motorsports. Aspiring racers can now unleash their full potential and compete professionally while representing the prestigious GR Saudi Team.-- TradeArabia News Service