Muscat: OQ, the global integrated energy group, has announced its exclusive sponsorship of Omani racing driver Ahmad bin Said al Harthy, for the 2024 season of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
OQ's sponsorship of Al Harthy comes in support of Omani sports and empowers Omani professionals to participate in international sporting events. The sponsorship also fosters national pride by showcasing Oman on the global sporting stage and raises the profile of motorsports internationally.
Al Harthy will compete under the name of OQ Oman Racing Team in the FIA World Endurance Championship for the second consecutive year. The championship consists of 8 races held in various cities around the world.
Al Harthy will also participate in the European GT Challenge Cup this season, including 5 rounds in different parts of the world.
Ashraf bin Hamed al Mamari, Acting Group CEO of OQ, said: "OQ's sponsorship of racing champion Ahmad al Harthy reflects His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's strong support for Omani sports and their role in representing Oman on the international stage. It also aligns with OQ's commitment to empowering Omani athletes to compete globally."
He added: "Since 2021, the OQ Group has proudly supported racing champion Ahmad al Harthy, recognising the role this sponsorship plays in showcasing Oman and empowering Omani talent on the global stage. This renewed sponsorship builds on Al Harthy's past successes, including his impressive second-place finish at last year's Le Mans race. We remain confident in his ability to achieve further triumphs in the upcoming international championships."
Omani racer Ahmad expressed his gratitude, saying: "I would like to extend my sincere thanks to OQ for continuing their exclusive sponsorship of my international racing in 2024. Following their support over the past three years, which significantly contributed to our podium finishes, this renewed partnership empowers Omani athletes in endurance racing and marks a strong step forward for the sport in Oman."
Royal Commendation Medal recipient Ahmad al Harthy commended OQ's unwavering support for Omani athletes. He highlighted OQ's significant role in empowering them to compete internationally, acknowledging the positive impact it has had on his own achievements, including representing Oman in international car races.
OQ supports Omani champions across various sports in their international participation. This includes shot putter Mohammed al Mashaykhi, whose participation in the World Para Athletics Championships was bolstered by OQ's sponsorship and diver Omar al Ghailani, who secured first place in the Freediving World Cup with OQ's backing.
OQ prioritises sports as a key area of its social investment programme. The Group annually sponsors numerous sports initiatives, events and activities to bolster Omani sports development. Additionally, OQ fosters a healthy lifestyle among employees by providing access to sports and exercise facilities and equipment, promoting work-life balance.
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