‘My father Googled 'How do you reach Formula One?’: Rashid Al Dhaheri’s journey from karting to dreams of F1

Rashid Al Dhaheri, now 18, is a rising star in motor sports, having secured a junior driving position with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. The UAE native recently concluded the FIA Formula Regional European Championship in a strong fourth position, trailing the reigning champion Emanuele Olivieri of Italy by 38 points. Al Dhaheri's impressive season included three wins, eight podium finishes, one pole position and a fastest lap, all while driving for French team R-ace GP.

The teenager became the first Emirati to lead the standings, finishing the season 21 points ahead of the second-placed driver as the title battle approached a conclusion.

Al Dhaheri's journey into the world of racing started at an early age, when he was just three years old and introduced to Formula One during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. His fascination with the sport was so strong that he convinced his father to research how to begin racing. Al Dhaheri's father Googled "How do you start? How do you reach Formula One?" paving the way for the young karting prodigy.

Growing up, Al Dhaheri's life revolved around racing calendars, constant travel and competing against rivals. However, challenges arose when he was 12 years old, with travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic forcing him to separate from his parents for two years. This period tested his resolve, but he remained committed to his passion for racing. Al Dhaheri explained that he finds it difficult to go a week without racing, as it is an integral part of his life.

Al Dhaheri emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in the pursuit of a career in racing. His family, though initially skeptical, eventually came to support his dreams and maintain his love for the sport. His mother and grandmother still prefer to find out race results after the event, but they remain his unwavering cheerleaders.

With his recent accomplishments, Rashid Al Dhaheri is poised to make a significant impact on the next generation of Emirati racing drivers, as there are currently few role models for young Emiratis to aspire to. As he moves forward, his ultimate goal remains firmly set: to achieve success in Formula One.