The Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and the Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC), in coordination with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, have today confirmed that Rally Saudi Arabia, originally scheduled to take place in Jeddah this November, will not take place as part of the 2026 FIA Middle East Rally Championship (FIA MERC).

The decision follows a comprehensive assessment of the current circumstances and associated challenges, while recognising the importance of ensuring the best possible organisational and operational conditions for all participants and relevant stakeholders.

As a result, Cyprus Rally, scheduled to take place from 23–25 October, will serve as the final round of the 2026 FIA Middle East Rally Championship.

The FIA, SAMF and SMC reaffirm their commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of motor sport in Saudi Arabia and to working closely with relevant stakeholders, reinforcing their long-term commitment to hosting major international and regional motor sport championships in the country.

About the FIA Middle East Rally Championship

Established in 1984, the FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC) is the FIA's regional rally championship for the Middle East. The championship brings together drivers and co-drivers from across the region, competing on a range of surfaces including gravel, asphalt and desert terrain. The MERC provides a competitive platform for both established competitors and emerging talent, with championship titles awarded across multiple categorie