In the vibrant heart of Amman, the first final of the FIA MENA Esports Championship is about to shake the screens. With a plethora of talent from all corners of the Middle East, this competition represents the pinnacle of an adventure that began with the MENA Esports Cup. Get ready, because here, adrenaline knows no bounds!
A meteoric rise
Who would have thought that one day, the world of virtual racing could bring together over 700 drivers from 20 countries? This is exactly what the FIA MENA Esports Championship has achieved. With its first official sanction from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), this championship has become a true springboard for digital racing enthusiasts in the region. Imagine a scene where speed meets technology, much like Formula 1 cars meeting a next-gen video game, all set against a backdrop of intense rivalries.
This year, it’s the ‘Autodromo Lago Maggiore’ circuit in Gran Turismo 7 that has seen drivers with sharpened skills go head-to-head. The top 40 fought like lions in the arena to secure one of the 24 spots in the final, proving that every millisecond counts when it comes to conquering the podium.

This image shows a dynamic view of the circuit, where drivers showcased their skill and strategy. The circuit design, inspired by the natural landscapes of Lombardy, features tight turns and breathtaking straights, ideal for daring overtakes.
The finalists: a legendary trio and formidable challengers
This final is already shaping up to be mythical with three champions set to line up on the starting grid. On one side, Sami-Joe Abi Nakhle, the inaugural champion, returns with the ambition of adding a second title to his record. On the other side, Mohammed Hadi from Iraq and Mohammed Al Barwani from Oman present themselves as serious contenders for the throne. Just imagine: it’s like the big names in football meeting on the pitch for a decisive match, where every pass counts!
Opposing them are several other sharp drivers like Nayef Al Faleh from Saudi Arabia, considered a favourite in previous editions, and Wissam Khalil and Waseem Abou Khalil, both of whom have shown spectacular progress in recent months. With such a density of talent, every lap can change the standings. An unexpected fall or a bold maneuver can change the game at any moment!
A spectacle to watch closely
The final will take place at the ARC Esports Arena in King Hussein Business Park. The atmosphere promises to be electric, like that of a rock concert where every note resonates in collective frenzy. Fans can follow this showdown on the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Middle East YouTube channel, where cheers and encouragement will be in abundance. Who will be crowned champion? The answer is just a click away.
For those who prefer live action, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer real-time updates with regular news on the races and results. In short, it’s an unmissable event for all fans of motorsport and esports.
The finalists in contention
The suspense is at its peak as we eagerly await to see who will join the list of finalists:
- Iraq: Mohamad Hadi
- Lebanon: Sami-Joe Abi Nakhle
- Lebanon: Waseem Abou Khalil
- Saudi Arabia: Naif Al Faleh
- Saudi Arabia: Wessam Khalil
- Bahrain: Hassan Khalil
- Bahrain: Sadiq Marhoon
- Oman: Wassif Al Kharusi
- Oman: Mohammed Al Barwani
- Jordan: Sham Abu Jabal
- Jordan: Abdullah Al Azzah
- Kuwait: Mahdi Bualiyyan
- Kuwait: Abdulrahman AlDhafiri
- Qatar: Khalid Al Maraghi
- Qatar: Faisal Al Yafei
- Palestine: George Saadeh
- Palestine: Rayyan Batta
- Yemen: Zeid Al Areqi
- Algeria: Mohammad Kheireddine
- Morocco: Reda Ihssain
- Morocco: Ali Khouya
- UAE: Mohammed Idris
- Libya: Musa Mheidy
- Tunisia: Karim Chouiref
Conclusion: A promising future for Esports in MENA
With this championship, the Middle East region is witnessing its talents flourish in a discipline that has never been more popular. By combining technology and a passion for motorsport, the FIA MENA Esports Championship not only promotes competition; it also shapes the future of digital entertainment. Who knows which driver will emerge as the next superstar of virtual racing? Join us in Amman to find out!
Official sources:
- FIA MENA Esports Championship
- FIA MENA Esports Championship Sport

