Team Abu Dhabi’s Rashed Al Qemzi has made history by becoming the most successful driver in the UIM F2 World Championship, clinching his fifth title with a stunning victory in Portugal. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Al Qemzi’s exceptional talent but also marks a significant milestone for Team Abu Dhabi, further solidifying their dominance in the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Rashed Al Qemzi wins his fifth UIM F2 World Championship title.
- He becomes the most successful driver in the championship’s history.
- Al Qemzi secured victory in the final round held in Portugal.
- Team Abu Dhabi celebrates its 18th world title under manager Guido Cappellini.
A Record-Breaking Season
Al Qemzi’s journey to this historic title was marked by a series of impressive performances throughout the season. He concluded the 2024 campaign with three Grand Prix victories, including a repeat win on the Tagus River circuit at Vila Velha de Rodao, where he had previously triumphed last year.
After qualifying in second place for the championship’s final round, Al Qemzi held a six-point lead over Lithuania’s Edgaras Riabko. Knowing that a second-place finish would suffice to retain his title, he approached the race with confidence.
The Final Race
In the decisive race, Al Qemzi made a spectacular start, quickly overtaking Monaco’s pole position winner, Giacomo Sacchi, to take the lead. He maintained this lead throughout the race, ultimately winning by more than three seconds. Sacchi finished in second place, while Riabko secured third, concluding the championship as the runner-up.
Despite facing mechanical issues that forced him to exit early, Team Abu Dhabi’s Mansoor Al Mansoori managed to secure third place overall in the championship, following his Grand Prix victory in Portugal just a week prior.
Al Qemzi’s Reflections
After his victory, Al Qemzi expressed his gratitude towards his team, stating, “I’m very happy to be world champion again, and I want to thank my team for the great support they’ve given to myself, and to Mansoor, this season.” He acknowledged the challenges he faced this season, noting that it was tougher than his previous titles due to fierce competition and missed podiums.
A Glorious Career
Rashed Al Qemzi first gained recognition in the powerboat racing world by winning the Nations Cup and F4-S world titles. He made his debut in the F2 World Championship in 2016, finishing ninth overall. His first championship title came in 2017, followed by victories in 2019, 2021, and now 2024, showcasing his consistent excellence in the sport.
As Al Qemzi continues to break records and set new standards in powerboat racing, his achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in the UAE and beyond. With the support of Team Abu Dhabi and his relentless determination, the future looks bright for this remarkable driver.
