Bahraini motorcycle racer Ali Adiby tells Kristian Harrison about his determination to realise his dream of being the first Arab to compete at the prestigious Manx GP on the Isle of Man, the gateway to the iconic TT races.

Ali’s fascination with motorcycles ignited at just 10 years old, despite his parents’ apprehensions about the dangers involved. He was captivated by the roar of engines and the thrill of speed. But convincing his family was another matter.

“My parents always said it was too dangerous,” says Ali. “So I used to go to internet cafés just to download MotoGP pictures. I’d stare at them for hours and imagine myself riding the bikes.” Eventually, he bought his first motorbike in secret. “One day my parents came home and saw it. They were shocked,” he laughs. “But that’s where it all started.”

From the Streets to the Circuit

He began riding dirt bikes, then shifted his focus towards becoming a professional. A call to the Bahrain Motorcycle Club (BMC) opened the door. “They told me they couldn’t provide a bike, but they’d support travel and logistics if I brought my own,” he recalls.

His first ever race, in Qatar in 2012, was a revelation. “I beat experienced Bahraini riders, some with years more experience than me,” says Ali. “People started saying I had real ability.”

A Rising Talent
His progression continued. In one rain-soaked international race, half the riders crashed, but he managed to finish in the top 10 – a major breakthrough.

Though setbacks followed, including crashes and financial difficulties, his determination never wavered. By 2015, he was back with a new bike and a new focus. A sponsorship from the Qatar Federation followed, complete with a Spanish mechanic and a fully prepared bike.

“I was finally just a rider. I showed up, got on the bike and raced. It was a dream,” he says. That year, he won Rookie of the Year and multiple podiums in the Qatar Championship. Since 2016, Ali has competed in the Bahrain Motorcycle Championships, frequently reaching the podium and securing first place among competitors from various nationalities. His most recent achievement was winning the 2024 championship.

The Isle of Man Dream
Now 36, Ali is pursuing his most ambitious goal yet: qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man – the gateway to the world-famous TT.

“It’s not just a race. It’s a piece of history,” he says. “If I make it, I’ll be the first Arab rider ever to compete there. That would mean everything to me.”

He’s already cleared the initial stages of entry and is now trying to get more race experience under his belt, with the possibility of traveling to the Isle of Man for training days this year or next.

Support from Home
Despite his accolades, one challenge remains: consistent support. “People don’t realise how much this sport costs – bikes, travel, maintenance, gear,” says Ali. He’s hopeful that with a little backing, he can make his mark not just for himself, but for Bahrain.

“I want to create history for Bahrain and the Arab world,” he says. “Not just to race, but to inspire others – to show it can be done.”

Tags #Motorcycle racing career #Bahrain racing talent #Bahrain Motorcycle Championships #Arab motorcycle racer #Manx Grand Prix #Bahraini Motorcycle Racer #Ali Adiby #Bahraini Motorcycle Racer #interview #btm april 2025