SAUDI
NEXT GEN
Your Road to Dakar
Launched by the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation, the Saudi Next Gen Program is a national initiative designed to identify and develop the next generation of Saudi rally raid talent.
An Immersive Training Experience
As the Kingdom's largest program dedicated to recruiting and training young Saudi motorsport talent, participants gain access to Dakar-level preparation through immersive training, practical experience, and expert-led development.
- Theory workshops
- Practical training sessions
- Navigation exercises
- Vehicle handling & preservation
- Stage simulations
- Team coordination
- Media & communication training
Participants take part in immersive rally raid training environments alongside Dakar specialists and motorsport professionals. The experience culminates in a dedicated Dakar-style multi-stage challenge designed to test participants under competitive rally conditions.
Eligibility
Additional eligibility requirements and technical criteria will be announced during the application phase.
From Selection to Dakar
Five crews selected annually to advance into the Dakar immersion experience.
Participants undergo technical workshops, rally training sessions, navigation exercises, and practical field training led by Dakar experts.
Drivers and navigators take part in a dedicated Dakar-style challenge featuring selective stages and real rally conditions.
Participants are assessed across key rally raid disciplines including navigation, vehicle management, consistency, teamwork, adaptability, and problem solving under pressure.
The top-performing participants earn the opportunity to compete in the following edition of the Dakar Rally.
Built Around Real Dakar Skills
The Saudi Next Gen challenge evaluates participants beyond speed alone, focusing on the core disciplines required in rally raid competition.
Consistency
Performance across selective stages and overall stage completion.
Navigation
Waypoint validation accuracy and route-following ability.
Problem Solving
Managing technical and environmental challenges during rally conditions.
Regulations
Understanding and applying official Dakar sporting rules.
Vehicle Care
Balancing competitive performance with mechanical care and durability.
Teamwork
Working collaboratively with co-drivers, mechanics, and team personnel.
Media Relations
Representing the program professionally through interviews, press engagements, and digital communication.
Program Impact
Launched under Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Next Gen Program reflects the Kingdom's long-term commitment to developing Saudi motorsport talent and expanding national participation on the global stage.
- National talent development
- Structured pathways into rally raid competition
- International participation opportunities
- The growth of Saudi motorsport expertise
- Future Saudi representation at Dakar and beyond