Pakistan considers adding a third spinner to secure a series sweep against South Africa
Race Wars 2025 recently took place in Islamabad, showcasing the growing interest in motorsports within Pakistan. The three-day festival, held from October 17 to 19, attracted over 300 participants from various regions, including Faisalabad.
Event Overview
The Islamabad administration hosted the motorsport event at the Shakarparian Parade Ground, which is typically associated with military activities. This festival featured various racing formats, including:
- Head-to-head circuit racing
- Drag racing
- Drift competitions
Divisions in Racing
The racing events tested different skills and car capabilities. In head-to-head racing, cars raced in pairs, emphasizing handling and acceleration. Nine categories were contested, with each category producing a winner.
Drag racing, focusing on speed, saw two cars launch simultaneously, with the fastest taking victory. Drifting, however, required precision and style. Judges awarded points based on tire placement and maneuvering near walls, making speed less critical than control and finesse.
Participant Insights
Young racers and enthusiasts showcased modified vehicles ranging from Civics and Corollas to high-performance models like BMW and Ford. For instance, 24-year-old Mohammad Wasif competed with his BMW E63, boasting a 700-wheel horsepower engine.
Businessman Rehan Saleem also participated, bringing a modified 2006 BMW E90 equipped with a powerful Japanese engine. “The future is bright,” he noted, emphasizing the youthful enthusiasm surrounding motorsports.
Crowd and Atmosphere
The festival attracted mainly young spectators in their twenties and thirties. They enjoyed the festivities from tiered stands, with food stalls and live music enhancing the environment. First-time attendee Iman Malik expressed her excitement about the event and her interest in future participation.
Event Organization
Organizing Race Wars 2025 required significant effort, involving over 400 team members managing race control, security, and spectator services. Entry fees were set at Rs20,000 ($70) for head-to-head and drag races, while drift competitors paid Rs10,000 ($35).
Despite the challenges in securing sponsorships and financial sustainability, organizer Syed Hamza Hamid expressed optimism. “If the drivers are happy, we are happy,” he summarized, highlighting the passion fueling motorsport growth in Pakistan.
