Jordan Motorsport new CEO lays out goals, challenges

AMMAN –– Jordan Motorsport (JMS) has appointed former speed test champion Othman Nassif as its new CEO with the aim of taking auto sports in the Kingdom to a higher level.

In a recent interview with The Jordan Times, Nassif said that heading sporting authority for all motorsport events in the Kingdom would not be an easy mission.

“Definitely, it will not be a smooth ride at all as there are a lot of things that need to be done,” he said, expressing his appreciation for the confidence of HRH Prince Feisal, chairman of the Executive Motor Sports Council. 

“I am really honoured with the confidence given to me by HRH Prince Feisal and the council and I am really looking forward to the challenge in the coming seasons,” he added. 

A new activity will crown the 2014 season, Nassif said in reference to a decision to include drifting in this season’s agenda.

“There will be four drifting events with the first event to be held March 14, the second June 13, the third July 11 and the fourth September 26,” Nassif explained. 

“This sport has a lot of followers and fans and we need them to enjoy it in a safe and secure place that is why we will have the event at SOFEX and it will be organised to the highest level,” he added.

Jordan Rally, the third round of the Middle East Rally Championship, will be held May 1-3, he indicated, noting that Al Hussein Rumman Hill Climb is scheduled to be held on August 22.

These two international events contribute to the reputation of auto sports in the Kingdom and the Federation of International Automobiles has always highlighted the positive impact of Jordan Rally, Nassif said.  

Regarding the national rallies, Nassif stated that there would be five series, with the first one to hit the track on April 11. 

“We would like to see more drivers especially women drivers participating in these events,” he said. 

Karting will also have a strong presence with five races, according to the JMS head.

Nassif, who completed the Train the Trainer Programme and the Officials Safety Training Programme certified by the Motor Sports Association in the UK, is planning to involve schools and universities in an attempt to explain to them that auto sports is not all about speed.

“We want students and youths to understand that safety issues are really important and not speed,” he said.

Agreeing that the number of drivers taking part in the motorsport events has been on the decline, Nassif said that auto sport in Jordan is a costly activity, adding that a lot of drivers lack the financial support to “continue their passion”.

“We need to find a way to convince local companies to sponsor drivers as this is really crucial for this sport,” he said.

JMS is doing its part by trying to get customs exemptions on cars and spare parts but still local companies should help too, he added.