Yas heat academy's al sabq 2026 discovers next generation of emirati racing talent

• Female participants featured in this year's edition, with representation in the Top 15 among the 26 finalists
• Total of 3 Emirati winners announced earning fully funded Bambino racing seats

Abu Dhabi, UAE – April 20, 2026: Yas Heat Academy successfully hosted the second edition of its flagship grassroots initiative, AL SABQ, on Saturday, April 18 at Yas Marina Circuit, welcoming a record number of young Emirati participants.

A total of 26 boys and girls aged 5 to 7 took part in this year's selection event, double the number from the inaugural 2025 programme which had 13 participants. This marked a significant milestone in the initiative's growth and nationwide reach.

Designed to identify and nurture the UAE's most promising young motorsport talent, AL SABQ brought together participants from across the country for a full-day assessment at Yas Kartzone. The programme evaluated drivers through a combination of on-track performance, fitness and coordination tests, and behavioural assessments, ensuring a holistic approach to talent identification.

Following a highly competitive selection process, the standout drivers were identified, with:

• Faisal Alzaabi, aged 7 years 1 month, from Abu Dhabi (Male Winner 1)
• Saif Alshehhi, aged 7 years 2 months, from Abu Dhabi (Male Winner 2)
• Ameera Al Mheiri, aged 4 years 7 months, from Abu Dhabi (Top Female Winner*)

*Ameera will officially join the racing programme upon meeting the minimum age requirement and will sit out the first race until eligible.

Each winner earns fully funded Bambino racing seats in the UAE IAME and Bambino Cup Championship as official Yas Heat Academy drivers, managed by Yas Heat Racing.

The 2026 edition also highlighted the presence of female participants, including representation within the Top 15, reflecting the programme's continued commitment to encouraging young Emirati girls to explore opportunities in motorsport.

Participation was predominantly from Abu Dhabi, which represented all finalists, although the wider programme attracted registrations from across the UAE, including Dubai and Ajman.

Ali Al Beshr, General Manager of Yas Marina Circuit, said: "AL SABQ represents Yas Marina Circuit's long-term commitment to supporting and developing local Emirati motorsport talent. The growth we've seen in just its second year, with participation doubling, reflects the strong interest and enthusiasm among young Emiratis to pursue motorsport from an early age. By expanding our national outreach and continuing to create opportunities for young drivers, we are enabling broader access to the sport and nurturing the next generation of talent. It is inspiring to witness such promising drivers emerging, and we look forward to supporting their journey as they take the next steps in competitive racing."

Building on the success of its inaugural 2025 edition, AL SABQ continues to play a key role in Yas Marina Circuit's broader vision of developing homegrown motorsport talent and strengthening grassroots engagement across the UAE.

The initiative forms part of a long-term pathway that has already supported the rise of Emirati drivers competing on the international stage, reinforcing the UAE's position as a growing hub for motorsport excellence.

With plans already in motion for the 2027 edition, AL SABQ is set to further expand its reach and impact as it continues to shape the future of Emirati motorsport.