R-ace GP has confirmed Rashid Al Dhaheri as its first driver for the 2026 Formula Regional Middle East Trophy, immediately positioning itself as a front-running contender. The Emirati arrives with proven Formula Regional pedigree and backing from the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Junior Team, adding both speed and profile to the French squad’s winter programme.
Home-region return with greater expectations
Born and raised in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhaheri returns to the Middle East with a deeper understanding of the championship and its demands. He previously contested the Formula Regional Middle East Championship in 2025 and finished sixth overall, gaining valuable experience across Yas Marina, Dubai and Lusail. This time, he enters the series with stronger momentum and higher expectations following a productive European season.
From karting to Formula Regional
Al Dhaheri established himself early through an outstanding karting career. He won multiple WSK titles, including the Super Master Series and Euro Series, and consistently competed at the front of international fields. These results marked him out as one of the most complete drivers of his generation before his transition to single-seaters.
Al Dhaheri stepped into Formula 4 in 2023 with Prema Racing and immediately showed adaptability across multiple championships. He raced in Italian F4, Euro 4, F4 UAE and South East Asia, achieving consistent points finishes and front-running pace. He built on that platform in 2024 with a strong F4 UAE campaign, where he claimed race wins and multiple podiums against a competitive grid.
In 2025, Al Dhaheri graduated to the Formula Regional European Championship with Prema Racing. He delivered three podium finishes during the season and consistently fought inside the top group. As a result, Mercedes-AMG selected him for its Formula 1 Junior Team, confirming his status as one of the category’s standout prospects.
The 2026 Middle East Trophy will introduce the new-generation Formula Regional car, placing increased emphasis on driver feedback and adaptability. Al Dhaheri’s experience across multiple championships positions him well to lead development while targeting results. His partnership with R-ace GP aligns competitive ambition with long-term progression.
