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As the host of the 2025 Dakar Rally, Saudi Arabia continues to make waves in the world of motorsport. For the first time, the Kingdom has organized a training program specifically targetted for young Saudi athletes known as ‘Saudi Next Gen’. This initiative has brought to light some inspiring individuals, including Merryhan Albaz, a prominent influencer, and sports enthusiast who has broken barriers as the Saudi’s first female mechanic in motorsport.
As the first round of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship, the 47th edition of the Dakar Rally is being held in Saudi Arabia between January 3 and 17, 2025.
In the inaugural edition of the ‘Saudi Next Gen’, five pairs of drivers participated, with four male pairs and one female duo. The Saudi Automobile Federation chose these young talents to receive professional coaching and compete for a chance to take part in next year’s Dakar Rally, once again to be hosted in Saudi Arabia.
The all-female team is made up of Merryhan Albaz and her assistant Nancy Al-Majali from Jordan. While other countries have seen female participation in similar training over the years (with stars like Lucie Baud and Dania Akeel making headlines) Saudi Arabia is now joining those ranks. Baud, with her impressive record in the French Co-drivers’ Championship, and Akeel, with accolades like the Baja Desert Rally World Cup title, serve as inspirational figures.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Riyadh to diversify its economy away from oil and foster local sports. The country invests heavily in sports, about $2 billion each year, aiming to develop homegrown talent rather than relying on nationalizing players as seen in other Gulf nations.
Motorsport, unlike other athletic fields, often relies less on physical prowess and more on skill and understanding of vehicle mechanics. This provides a unique platform where Saudi talent, regardless of gender, can shine alongside international competitors. In the Swiss Army knife that is the Dakar Rally, participants must be adept at navigating harsh terrains, as well as understanding and managing technical vehicle issues—a challenge Merryhan and her peers are eagerly embracing.