The stage is set for an adrenaline-packed weekend as the 20th edition of the Michelin 24 Hour Dubai race gears up to take over the iconic Dubai Autodrome in Dubai Motor City. This year, the season-opening event of the prestigious 24H Series promises to be bigger and more exciting, featuring 70 racing teams from around the globe, including four UAE-based teams. Scheduled for January 11 and 12, 2025, this endurance race is a cornerstone of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Auto Season calendar and a testament to Dubai’s thriving motorsport culture.
A Celebration of Speed and Strategy
The 24-hour race is a true test of endurance, skill, and teamwork. This year’s GT3 grid is the largest in the event’s history, with over 30 teams ready to tackle the challenging track. Among the UAE-based teams are Rabdan Motorsport, Dragon Racing, Fulgenzi Racing, and Duel Racing. Rabdan Motorsport, led by Emirati driver Saif Al Ameri, is a strong contender, boasting a lineup of talented drivers including Fahad Al Zaabi, Salem Al Ketbi, and Christopher Zoechling. These teams will compete alongside globally renowned names like two-time WRC champion Kalle Rovanpera, former World Touring Champion Robert Huff, and Saudi Arabia’s first professional female racing driver, Reema Juffali.
Adding a unique dimension to this year’s race is Indian actor Ajith Kumar, a Tamil cinema superstar with over 60 films to his name. Kumar, who has a long-standing passion for motorsport, will make his racing return with his newly-formed team, Ajith Kumar Racing. This marks a significant milestone in his motorsport journey, despite a recent setback during training that left him slightly injured. His determination to compete underscores the spirit of endurance racing.
Dubai Autodrome: A Hub for Motorsport Excellence
Since its inauguration in 2004, the Dubai Autodrome has been a premier venue for motorsport in the region. Designed to international standards, it features a 5.39-kilometer circuit with multiple configurations, allowing it to host a variety of events, from professional races to amateur track days. Over the past two decades, the Autodrome has become synonymous with the 24H Dubai race, having hosted every edition since the event’s inception. Beyond motorsport, the venue also offers karting, corporate events, and even cycling tracks, making it a versatile hub for entertainment and sports.
The 24H Series and the DSF Auto Season Calendar
The 24H Series, a globally recognized endurance racing championship, places the Dubai race as a central event in its annual calendar. This alignment with the Dubai Shopping Festival’s Auto Season not only elevates the race’s profile but also enriches the city’s vibrant festival atmosphere. Visitors can look forward to an action-packed weekend, complete with fan zones, live entertainment, food trucks, and cultural displays.
One of the most thrilling experiences for fans is the grid walk, where they can witness the cars up close and meet the drivers before the race begins. Fireworks and podium celebrations add a festive touch, making it a perfect family outing or a motorsport enthusiast’s dream weekend.
What to Expect on Race Day
The event kicks off on January 11, 2025, with fan zones opening at 10 a.m. The grid walk at noon provides an intimate pre-race experience, followed by the race start at 1 p.m. Spectators can stay throughout the night, enjoying the thrill of continuous racing. On January 12, the race concludes with a dramatic finish at 1 p.m., followed by podium celebrations and extended fan zone activities until 6 p.m.
The best part? Admission is free with prior registration, allowing everyone to experience world-class racing without barriers.
A Weekend of Motorsport Legacy
The 20th anniversary of the Dubai Autodrome and the Michelin 24H Dubai race is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of passion, perseverance, and performance. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or a casual visitor looking for a unique experience, this weekend promises to leave you enthralled. From the roar of engines to the camaraderie among fans, the event is a tribute to the unifying power of motorsport.