The 2026 Hail Toyota International Baja Rally is set to reinforce its status as a cornerstone of global motorsport, with organizers unveiling a preliminary entry list of 109 elite competitors. Representing a diverse cross-section of local and international talent, the lineup underscores the rally’s growing influence on the world stage.
This year’s roster reflects a remarkable depth of skill, featuring a selection of world-renowned champions alongside the kingdom’s most formidable desert racers, all vying for supremacy across the challenging terrain of the Hail region.
The preliminary field is headlined by legendary figures who have become synonymous with off-road excellence.
International heavyweights such as Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al-Rajhi and Qatar’s Nasser Al-Attiyah are set to lead the charge, joined by prominent global names including Japan’s Akira Miura and Portugal’s Francisco Barreto.
Local expertise remains a driving force of the event, with Saudi competitors Fares Al-Shammari, Abdulaziz Al-Yaeesh, and Ahmed Mudhi prepared to defend their home turf.
In the high-octane motorcycle category, Emirati standout Mohammed Al-Balooshi remains a primary figure to watch.
The competitive landscape is evenly distributed across all recognized Baja categories, ensuring significant sporting and public appeal.
The current entry breakdown includes 40 participants in the international vehicle category, 33 in the local category, and 39 competitors in the motorcycle and quad divisions.
This diverse participation ensures that every segment of the rally will be contested by a high-caliber field, promising an intense spectacle for fans and a rigorous test for the athletes.
While the current roster reflects immense global interest, the list remains preliminary until it undergoes a rigorous validation process.
All registered participants must pass comprehensive administrative and technical inspections conducted in accordance with internationally recognized regulations.
These inspections are scheduled to take place on Wednesday, January 28, between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
The final, sanctioned list of competitors will be officially approved and announced late Wednesday evening, just hours before the first stage commences on Thursday morning.
The Hail Toyota International Baja Rally is the result of a coordinated effort by the Hail Region Development Authority and the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Sport and the Hail Region Governorate. Backed by official partner Jameel Motorsports and the Saudi Racing Organizers Club, the organizing committee is currently finalizing all logistical and technical arrangements.
Their mission is to deliver a distinguished edition that meets the highest international standards, further cementing Hail’s reputation as a premier destination on the global motorsport map.
