Israel’s Netanel Azulai and Ziv Carmi Win 2025 Greece Rally, Outpacing Regional Rivals

In a historic triumph for Israeli motorsport, drivers Netanel Azulai and co-driver Ziv Carmi clinched first place in the gruelling 2025 Greece Rally, an 850-kilometer race that challenged competitors with treacherous terrain and intense competition. The victory, celebrated earlier this week saw the Israeli duo outperform elite teams from across the region, including Turkish crews who secured second and third places. As the Israeli flag was raised and HaTikvah echoed at the awards ceremony, the moment sparked national pride, marking a significant milestone for Israel’s burgeoning motorsport scene.

The Greece Rally, known for its demanding dirt and gravel stages, tested the endurance, precision, and teamwork of Azulai and Carmi, who navigated their rally car with exceptional skill. Their win underscores Israel’s growing presence in international rallying, a sport gaining traction in the country despite limited infrastructure compared to European motorsport hubs. “This victory is a testament to the grit and talent of Israeli drivers,” said a motorsport enthusiast on social media, reflecting the widespread excitement. The duo’s success follows in the footsteps of other Israeli racers like Alon Day, who made history as the first Israeli in NASCAR’s top series, highlighting the nation’s rising motorsport ambitions.

Azulai and Carmi’s achievement is being hailed as one of Israel’s most remarkable performances on the global racing stage, with fans and officials alike celebrating their resilience. The rally, part of a competitive regional circuit, drew significant attention for its high stakes and challenging conditions, making the Israeli victory even more impressive. “Mazel tov to our champions!” posted a fan online, capturing the jubilant mood. As Israel continues to invest in motorsport development, including plans for new racing facilities, this win signals a bright future for the nation’s drivers, inspiring a new generation to take the wheel and chase victory.