The Chopard Classic Rally Dubai, was held for the second time in the United Arab Emirates. Organized by Chopard, along with partner Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and Emaar Properties, the Rally brought together 30 classic sports cars coming from the United Arab Emirates, Gulf region, Europe and the United States. Race car driver and Chopard ambassador Romain Dumas also competed in this second edition.

Exciting itinerary throughout the UAE

Starting from the magnificent Burj Khalifa in Dubai on November 9, the competitors drove their classic sport cars towards the northern emirates passing by Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Hatta. The route that the participants had to follow was filled with exciting and challenging regularity tests. Finally, once they reached Hatta, which is nestled on the foothills of the beautiful Hajar Mountains, they enjoyed a quick stop before heading back out to complete the route and compete for the winning titles of the Chopard Classic Rally Dubai.

Winners of the second edition

The awards ceremony and dinner took place at Armani Hotel Dubai where the first place team, driver and co-driver, received the limited edition of the L.U.C 1937 Classic Rally Dubai Special Edition. Produced in a 20-piece limited series and dedicated to Middle Eastern classic racing enthusiasts. Chopard has created this darkly handsome chronometer; a timekeeper with extraordinary finishing which is an essential instrument for the gentleman who seeks excitement and luxury.

Awards were also given to the second and third place teams’ winners along with three special categories: Spirit of the Rally, Best in show classic car and Best novices, a new 2018 award category presented by Emaar Properties.

Talking about his participation in this regularity rally, Romain Dumas, 24 Hours of Le Mans winner in 2010 and 2016, and three-time winner of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb said: “I am not a specialist in regularity rallies but having the chance to meet with passionate participants in a friendly but competitive atmosphere and discovering the enchanting scenery on the roads of the UAE, was my main objective”.

Prestigious partners sharing the same enthusiasm for classic cars

Commenting on the rally, Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi, Chief Commercial Officer of Seddiqi Holding, said: “It is an honor to be a part of the Chopard Classic Rally for the second consecutive year – a unique event which brings together some of the most exquisite classic cars in the world. This race is extraordinary to see and is a shining example of how the two worlds of horology and automotive complement one another perfectly.”

Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Managing Director of Emaar Properties, said: “The success of the Chopard Classic Rally highlights the enthusiasm in the region for classic motor vehicles and the passion of their owners to maintain them in pristine condition. Our partnership with the event, which flagged off from Emaar’s flagship development, Downtown Dubai, reflects our commitment to support world-class events in Dubai that add to the city’s reputation and also bring happiness and positivity to the community.”

“Building on last year’s success, the 2018 Chopard Classic Rally Dubai takes again on an exciting occasion for classic car collectors to put their machines to the test. This year there was an even more diverse variety of vehicles, and the same spirit of camaraderie that unites all participants in this life-changing experience. The support and popularity of this Rally can only grow in many editions to come; in its second year, it now echoes far and wide across the classic car community in Dubai and beyond” confirms the officials from Tomini Classics, Dubai’s premier classic car showroom and gallery.

Inspired by a passion

This competition reserved for classic car enthusiasts is entirely in keeping with the Chopard’s aspirations, which partners a number of events dedicated to collector’s cars. The brand’s participation in many famous classic rallies embodies a unique relationship between Chopard and racing. The close ties between these two worlds have been strengthened ever since, largely due to the impressive number of common denominators that naturally draw them together. These include constant innovation, a tireless quest for performance and excellence, unfailing respect for traditions, the supreme importance of details – and of course a shared passion for mechanical engineering.