Manila:Rashid Al Dhaheri has been announced as the first Emirati racing driver to compete in the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2027, representing a significant milestone for Emirati motorsport. The 18-year-old, who is part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme, will join the Dutch team Van Amersfoort Racing, known for nurturing young talent.

According to Emirates News Agency, Al Dhaheri's participation in the FIA Formula 3 Championship will involve competing in 10 rounds across 10 countries and four continents. His debut race is set for the Bahrain International Circuit from March 12 to 14, 2027, followed by a race at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit in Saudi Arabia.

Al Dhaheri's journey in motorsport began in UAE karting and developed into an international career with notable successes in World Series Karting and the Macau International Kart Grand Prix. After progressing to Formula 4 in 2023 and Formula Regional in 2025, he secured significant victories, including being the first Emirati to win a Formula Regional race at Yas Marina Circuit.

Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, highlighted the UAE's commitment to fostering racing talent and described Al Dhaheri's move to FIA Formula 3 as a critical milestone. Al Dhaheri himself expressed pride in reaching this stage and hopes to inspire more young Emiratis to pursue international motorsport careers.