Important statements from Al-Attiyah in the press conference before the 50th Cyprus Rally

Nasser Al-Attiyah, speaking at the press conference ahead of the start of the 50th Cyprus Rally, mentioned that the Cyprus Rally is one of the best in the world. "I want to thank the organizers who have done everything to make this race happen, which is very important to us. I hope the country, the government, will keep this rally in Cyprus because it is one of the best in the world. Everyone knows that, from WRC, ERC, to MERC. That's why I haven't missed this race since 2003. Congratulations to Mr. Michaelides (President of the Cyprus Automobile Association), to everyone working on this event, and to all local crews participating in this rally," said the 18-time Middle East Champion, 5-time Dakar Rally winner, and Olympic bronze medalist in skeet shooting, Nasser Al-Attiyah.

The press conference was held at the old Nicosia City Hall, where the ceremonial start of the 50th Cyprus Rally took place on Friday, October 6. Also present were Abdullah Al-Rawahi, the leader of the Middle East Championship from Oman, and Simos Galatariotis, the winner of the 2018 Cyprus Rally and the leader of the Cyprus Championship in 2023.

"I love Cyprus very much, and I visit it often; it's my second home," said Al-Attiyah, who has even bought a house on the outskirts of Nicosia in recent years. Referring to the battle for the Middle East title, he said: "Both Abdullah (Al-Rawahi) and I are trying very hard, but for me, there is nothing else. I have one goal, and that is victory."

26-year-old Abdullah Al-Rawahi said, "I am happy to be here; the Cyprus Rally is one of my favorites." Speaking about the Middle East title battle, he said: "It's the last race of the season, and we will give our all for the best result." Abdullah Al-Rawahi leads the championship, six points ahead of Al-Attiyah, with the race on our island being the last of this year's Middle East Rally Championship.

The winner of the 2018 Cyprus Rally, Simos Galatariotis, thanked the event's organizers, congratulating them on the rally's organization. He also mentioned, "Our plan for tomorrow (Saturday, October 7) is to go full throttle to secure the best result."

This year’s event is sponsored by Honda – Galatariotis, ANCO Catering Equipment, Cablenet, Stop Fire, Andreopoulos Signs, Farmakas Natural Spring Water, Jeep and TGI Friday's. It is supported by the Nicosia and Aglantzia Municipalities.