Hafiz Sali: From Zamboanga Roots to World Championship Dreams

After highlighting Abu Dhabi Cycling Club phenom Whelan Rab Itong’s brilliance last year, Dwaentertainment now turns the spotlight on Hafiz Sali—a Filipino-born chronoman turned Qatari national rider who’s fast emerging as a promising prospect in international cycling.

Born on March 15, 2008, in Zamboanga City, Philippines, Sali has since become a naturalized citizen of Qatar and now competes for the Qatar National Cycling Team and the Al Adam local cycling squad.

Known for his strength as a chronoman, Sali continues to impress with his consistent performances both locally and abroad.

This September, Sali is slated to represent Qatar at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, where he will line up in the 22.6 km Junior Men’s Individual Time Trial on September 23 and the 119.3 km Junior Men’s Road Race on September 26.

Career Highlights:

International

• 2024 – Bahrain Abdulhakim Shimarri Race, Champion (Youth)

Local (Qatar)

• 2021 – Qatar National Road Race, Champion (Cadet)

• 2022–2024 – Qatar National Road Race, Silver (Youth)

• 2023 – Qatar National ITT Race, Bronze (Youth)

• 2025 – Lusail International Circuit ITT, Silver (Youth)

• 2025 – Dukhan Road Race, Gold (Youth)

• 2025 – Lusail Night Criterium, Triple Gold (Youth)

Hafiz Sali represents both the promise of Qatar cycling and the pride of his Filipino roots, carrying with him the determination to excel on the global stage.