By Sports Reporter/Amman, Jordan
The Jordan Rally is returning to the heart of Amman when the 2014 event is launched with a huge spectator event on Thursday, May 1 in Abdali.
A thrilling stage, around 1km in length, has been specially created within the impressive Abdali development, which is set to become the new downtown of Amman when it opens in June.
But first, rally fans and TV viewers across the Middle East will be treated to a mouthwatering festival of thrills and spills when the region’s fastest drivers take on the first stage on what promises to be a memorable night.
“The Jordan Rally has become established as a leading round for the FIA Middle East Championship but many of the stages, whilst easily accessible, are held in the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea areas so we wanted to bring the action closer to the public,” said Prince Feisal al-Hussein, chairman of Jordan Motorsport.
“We look forward to hosting a spectacular launch for the rally right in the heart of Amman and Jordan Motorsport sends an open invite for all to attend.”
The entertainment will get underway from around 4pm with the first cars expected on the ramp at 5pm. The first car will then tackle the specially created spectator stage from 6pm.
“It is our pleasure to host the Jordan Rally for the first time at Abdali, the new downtown in Amman,” said George Amireh, CEO Abdali.
“Given the project’s strategic location and sheer size, Abdali is destined to become the perfect location to hold such prestigious events.
“We look forward to welcoming the participants and we are confident that they will be delighted with what they will find at Abdali. We hope that they will come back next year for some more fun.”
Every car will complete one circuit before returning to the Dead Sea overnight. Day two starts from the Dead Sea Service Park early on May 2.
In total, the Jordan Rally consists of 21 timed stages, with 10 being held on each of the second and third days.
Reigning FIA Middle East rally champion Nasser Saleh al-Attiyah is the hot favourite to retain his Jordan crown, but the Qatari will face a tough battle from the region’s best drivers.
Officials at the launch of Jordan Abdali Rally 2014.
