The second round of the third season of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2025-2026 has concluded, organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council in cooperation with the Emirates Motorsports Organization. The event, held in the Liwa Desert of the Al Dhafra region, saw wide participation from elite local and international competitors.
In the 'Auto' category, the British duo of David Mears and co-driver David McBride continued their excellent form, maintaining their lead in the overall 'T3' classification. They achieved a perfect score of 25 points in both the first and second rounds, bringing their total to 50 points.
Competition also intensified in the 'T4' category, with the Canadian Bassam Karnouf and co-driver William Avinant on 40 points, and Emirati Atef Zarroni and co-driver Patrick McMurn on 38 points, highlighting the strength of both regional and global participation.
In the 'Buggy (SSV)' category, Russian Maxim Dykin established himself at the top of the overall standings after two rounds, ahead of his compatriot Sergey Kryakin. Lithuanian Emilija Gilazinykienė took third place, confirming her strong presence among the top professional drivers.
In the 'Quad' category, the battle for the top spot intensified among Emirati riders, with Abdulaziz Ahli and Mansour Al-Suwaidi sharing the lead after two rounds. Strong performances were also shown by Marwan Bellouche and Ali Al-Zarqouqi, reflecting the significant development of quad sports in the region.
In the 'Moto' category, South African Craig Kuitzi leads the overall 450cc class after two rounds, ahead of Lithuanian Arunas Gilazinkas and Briton John Kirk, in a highly competitive battle among the world's top names.
Several other competitors also stood out in the Vets, Marathon, and Adventure classes, in addition to strong female participation that saw a tight battle for the lead between South Africans Hailey O'Connor and Sonny Shuffler.
The season will continue with the third round scheduled for January 24, 2026.
