First Emirati Teen Joins Mercedes F1 Junior Team at 16: Rashid Al Dhaheri
In a historic milestone for Middle Eastern motorsport, 16-year-old Emirati racer Rashid Al Dhaheri has been inducted into the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Junior Team, becoming the first driver from the region to join this prestigious development program. This achievement not only underscores Al Dhaheri’s exceptional talent but also signifies the increasing global diversity within the realm of Formula 1 racing.
Early Beginnings and Karting Success
Rashid’s passion for motorsport ignited at the tender age of three during a visit to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit. By four, he was already karting in Al Ain, UAE, and by six, he had transitioned his racing pursuits to Italy, a hub for competitive karting. His dedication bore fruit as he amassed multiple championship victories, including five Dubai O Plate titles—a record in itself. He also clinched victories at the Macao International Kart Grand Prix and in World Series Karting (WSK).
In 2019, Al Dhaheri’s prowess was further highlighted when he secured titles in the 60 Mini category of both the WSK Super Master Series and the WSK Euro Series. Two years later, he dominated the OK Junior category, winning the WSK Champions Cup and the WSK Super Master Series in 2021.
Transition to Single-Seaters
April 2023 marked Rashid’s foray into single-seater racing, debuting in the Formula 4 (F4) category with Prema Racing in the Italian F4 Championship. Despite his young age, he showcased remarkable adaptability, securing several podium finishes and concluding the season within the top ten. His impressive performance extended to the prestigious Macau F4 race, where he earned a podium spot.
The 2024 season saw Rashid continue in F4, where he achieved two race victories in the UAE series, finishing fourth overall. He also maintained a top-ten position in the Italian F4 series and was the runner-up in the Formula Trophy UAE, despite not participating in the entire championship.
Joining the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Junior Team
Rashid’s consistent upward trajectory caught the attention of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Team, leading to his inclusion in their Junior Team in 2025. Expressing his gratitude, Rashid remarked, “I am deeply honoured to join the Mercedes-AMG Junior Team. This is a dream come true, and I am incredibly grateful to Toto Wolff and the entire Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 team for their trust in me and this incredible opportunity.”
Gwen Lagrue, Driver Development Advisor for Mercedes, commented on Rashid’s inclusion: “I’ve known Rashid for a few years now, since he was racing in karts. Not only the best driver coming from the Middle East but one of the best of his generation. We’re looking forward to his FRECA season.”
2025 Season and Future Prospects
In 2025, Rashid advanced to the Formula Regional level, competing in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship with Mumbai Falcons. He secured four podium finishes and was the runner-up in the Rookie category. He is set to compete in the Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) with PREMA Racing, aiming to further his development and showcase his potential on European circuits.
Impact on Middle Eastern Motorsport
Rashid’s achievements resonate deeply within the Middle East, inspiring a new generation of racers. His journey reflects the region’s growing presence in global motorsport, paving the way for aspiring drivers. Notably, female racers like Amna and Hamda Al Qubaisi have also made significant strides, with Amna being the first Emirati female racing driver to compete in a championship and Hamda securing a win at an F1 Academy race in the US
