The Palestinian Motorsport and Motorcycle Federation recently held the opening round of the 2026 Pro Drift Championship at Al-Istiqlal University Track in Jericho, drawing a crowd of over 3,000 spectators to enjoy the driving skill, control and precision on display.

As part of the national federation’s ongoing strategy to develop motor sport in Palestine, 35 professional drivers took part in the event which comprised of three stages. All drivers participated in the first two stages with the top ten advancing for a final attempt to determine the winner and final standings of the first round of the championship.

Ali Al-Mahdi took first place with a score of 202 points, ahead of Suhail Asbah in second and Nidal Abu Hamad in third. The event also featured female participation for the first time in a professional drifting competition organised by the federation, a milestone for inclusive and accessible motor sport in Palestine.

Abdullah Al-Shaarawi, President of the Palestinian Motorsport and Motorcycle Federation, said: "This championship represents a pivotal milestone in our seasonal agenda. The advanced technical performance of the drivers and the wide participation reflect the unity and growth of the Palestinian sports community. The record attendance demonstrates the soaring popularity of motor sport in Palestine and the public's trust in our organisation. We look forward to welcoming fans to the upcoming Speed Race – the date will be announced soon."

The event was attended by Dr Badr Aql, Secretary-General of the Palestinian Olympic Committee, and Dr Iyad Masoud, Assistant President of Al-Istiqlal University, along with representatives of partner institutions.

The federation thanked Al-Istiqlal University for hosting the event, and its sponsors – Unipal (and its brand XL), Bank of Palestine, Jawwal, Hebron Snack, Espresso Lab, and Al-Baraka Islamic Insurance, the tournament's official insurance provider. It also acknowledged the Palestinian Police, Civil Defence, and National Security Forces, along with technical committees, volunteers, organising agency Media Plus, and media partners Radio Basma and Roya TV, for their contribution to delivering the event.