The 48th Lebanon International Rally: A Title for Passion and Challenge in Speed Sports
By Ayoub Khedaj, Beirut, 11 September (KUNA) -- Speed racing enthusiasts are awaiting the official start of the 48th Lebanon International Rally this Friday evening, an event that stands out as a key stage of challenge and professionalism within the fourth round of the 2026 Middle East Rally Championship.
Ziad Jamous, director of the Lebanon International Rally, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that “organizing the rally this year posed a kind of challenge amid the circumstances the region is going through and the possibility of canceling some rounds.”
He added that Lebanon has insisted on holding the rally despite the country’s difficult situation, aiming to demonstrate its capacity to organize a major sporting event of this scale, noting that its preparation requires months of planning, work, and coordination.
Jamou clarified that the Lebanon International Rally is not merely a sporting event or a car racing competition; for decades, it has been a symbol of passion, challenge, and professionalism, as it is the only rally held on paved (asphalt) roads.
He pointed out that the number of participants reached 29, mostly from Lebanon, with notable participation from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, and Ireland. This year is distinguished by a high level of competition featuring some of the most expensive and top-tier cars, such as the RC2 class, with 17 of the 29 total participants competing in this category.
The Lebanese Automobile and Tourism Club is organizing the 48th Lebanon International Rally under the patronage of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, over a three-day period concluding on Sunday evening with the crowning of the winners.
The total distance of the rally is approximately 678 kilometers, including 197 kilometers of special stages for speed, comprising 11 stages.
The 2025 Lebanon Rally was won by Lebanese drivers Roger Feghali and Joseph Matar, marking their 18th title in the event since 2000. (End) A.Y.B./S.M.A.
