Manama: The opening race of the Aramco F4 Saudi Arabian Championship, certified by the FIA, concluded at the Bahrain International Circuit, marking an exciting start to the new season. Organised by Al Tawkilat Motorsport under the supervision of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), the event featured close competition, high technical standards, and strong spectator attendance, reflecting the growing popularity of this entry-level motorsport category.
According to Bahrain News Agency, an award ceremony was held at the Bahrain International Circuit to honour the top performers. His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, presented the first place trophy to British driver Kit Belofsky (PEAX). Sherif Al Mahdy, Chief Commercial Officer of BIC, awarded second place to Dutch driver Nina Gademan (CARAAGY), while Raad Abduljawad, Chairman of Saudi Diesel, presented third place to Emirati driver Theo Palmer (JACO).
Saudi karter Leen Alarifi presented the Best Female Driver Award to Nina Gademan (CARAAGY), and Elsa Cammilleri, Sporting Coordinator for the Single Seater Junior Categories, awarded the Best Rookie trophy to Kit Belofsky (PEAX).
The race included intense battles throughout, including a mid-race safety car period that reshuffled the order before the final laps. Saudi driver Abdullah Kamel (ASTOP) impressed with a strong drive to finish fourth, narrowly missing the podium. His performance, along with those of the other Saudi competitors, highlighted the steady rise of Saudi drivers in regional and international motorsport.
Earlier in the day, qualifying sessions determined the starting grid, with Theo Palmer (JACO) taking pole position, followed by Scott Kin Lindblom (Red Bull) in second and Kit Belofsky (PEAX) in third. Thibaut Ramaekers (Zahid) and Nina Gademan (CARAAGY) completed the top five.
The second race of the opening round will take place tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit, before the championship continues with Round 2 on October 15-16 at the same venue.