The 2025-2026 sports season at Qatar Racing Club (QRC) is officially underway, with the first round of the Qatar Drift Championship (QDC) kicking off this Thursday. The season promises to be packed with high-energy events, including a variety of motorsport competitions and activities under the patronage of QRC’s chairman, HE Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad al-Thani.
A Packed Season of Motorsport Events
This year’s calendar includes five major championships, covering a diverse range of motorsport disciplines. These events include drift, drag racing, sand drag racing, freestyle stunt shows, and motocross racing. Additionally, over 25 testing days are scheduled throughout the season, which runs for the next seven months. The calendar also features roll race events, offering enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to enjoy the action.
QRC’s General Manager, HE Sheikh Jabor bin Khalid al-Thani, highlighted the importance of early planning for the season. “We were keen to approve the sports calendar for the 2025/2026 season early on to give racers enough time to prepare for the competitions,” he said. “We are looking forward to an exceptional season by all standards marked by a diverse range of championships, fierce competition, and strong audience engagement.”
The QRC’s commitment to growth is evident, with Sheikh Jabor adding that the club’s efforts aim to diversify its events and attract more competitors. “Our goal is to build an informed and educated community and establish a strong youth base capable of steering Qatar toward more sporting achievements,” he stated.
Major Competitions
The upcoming season will see the return of some major events, including the Arabian Drag Racing League. This international-level competition will feature top racers from around the world and will run across six rounds, starting in January 2026. The Qatar Drag Racing Championship, featuring the best drag racers from the Middle East, will also take place, with the opening round scheduled for late November 2025.
Another key event, the Qatar Drift Championship, is expected to draw participants from across the Gulf, with competitors from Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Jordan, and even Europe. This year’s QDC will span five rounds, including three in 2025, with the final two taking place in March and April 2026.
Freestyle Drifting and Other Events
Fans of freestyle drifting will have the chance to watch a four-round championship, similar to the previous season. The Sand Drag Racing Competition, held at the Sealine Sand Track, is also a highlight of the calendar, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from all over the region.
In addition to these competitions, QRC will host Roll Racing events, Motocross test days, and a range of other motorsport activities throughout the season. The Qatar Custom Show, an event dedicated to custom car and motorcycle culture, will return for its 13th edition, taking place from January 13 to 17, 2026.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
QRC remains committed to engaging the local community and expanding its reach. The club plans to host gatherings for car owners, motorcycle clubs, and other community-centred events throughout the season. Sheikh Jabor also emphasised that the club’s ongoing focus is on creating a safe environment for both participants and spectators, with all necessary safety measures in place.
As the season progresses, QRC’s influence in the region’s motorsport scene is set to grow, strengthening its position as a key player in the Gulf’s racing culture. To stay updated on other regional developments, including cultural events like the Qatar International Arts Festival, continue following QRC’s latest news.
