“You are not born a champion”

Back in 2012 Mohammed Balooshi made history by becoming the first Emirati rider to take part in the world’s biggest rally, but failed to reach the finish line in Lima after breaking his hand and shoulder. Six years later, he returned to complete the rally in 32nd place, and continued a superb 2018 by lifting the FIM Bajas World Cup crown, thus becoming the first Arabic rider to win an FIM title in offroad rallies. Sadly the 2020 edition in his “second home”, Saudi Arabia, was a bitter one when he crashed out early. Mohammed has described the Dakar as the “pinnacle of motorsport” and he hit back in style last year finishing the event in 37th spot. The Dubai native was a relatively late bloomer, only riding a motorbike for the first time at the age of 18. He began his racing career at 20 and quickly tasted success, winning the Arabic motocross championship in five consecutive years between 2009 and 2013. He also starred in enduro before switching to rally raid, where he competes alongside his brother Sultan. Now aged 43, Balooshi competed in all the Middle-East legs of the FIM Baja World Cup winning in Jordan and Saudi Arabia to finish third of the overall standings. The goal is now to be consistent over 14 stages to aim for his best ever finish on the toughest of al rallies.`

MB: “After 12 stages, 8700 kms, 45 hours on the bike and all the obstacles I had to overcome during the last Dakar Rally, I'd say it was totally worth it when I got to raise UAE's flag at the finish line. You are not born a champion. It took 28 broken bones and 1 unbroken will for me to learn what it takes to become the best. I’m driven to share my passion through these learnings.”