August 20, 2025: In a remarkable show of support for emerging global motorsport talent, Yohan and Michelle Poonawalla of the Poonawalla Group have announced their support and sponsorship for 15-year-old Lebanese karting prodigy Mohammed Mneimneh, one of the fastest-rising names in Middle Eastern motorsport
This latest initiative by Yohan and Michelle Poonawalla reflects their deep-rooted commitment to nurturing promising young talent across diverse fields, extending beyond their legacy in business and philanthropy into the global world of sport. Known for their contributions to healthcare, education, art, and heritage, the Poonawallas continue to champion emerging excellence, and Mohammed’s journey perfectly aligns with their vision of empowering future global achievers. Yohan Poonawalla has been India’s top car collector and a motorsport enthusiast, and this sponsorship also symbolizes his passion for motoring legacy and enabling young talent like Mohammed to inch closer to the pinnacle of motorsports.
Widely regarded as one of the most promising young drivers in the region, Mohammed has already made a significant mark on the karting circuit across the UAE and the Middle East. Since beginning his racing career in 2021, he has consistently impressed with his skill and composure on the track. His entry into the Senior Max and X30 categories has been met with widespread acclaim, clinching multiple titles and podium finishes, including Senior X30 UAE Champion (2024–2025), Senior X30 Middle East Cup Champion (2024–2025), Senior X30 UAE Vice Champion (2023–2024), DAMC UAE Vice Champion (2023–2024), Dubai COFTA Winner (2024–2025).
With his sights set on the international racing scene, Mohammed is preparing to compete in the Senior X30 World Final this October, where he will proudly represent the UAE. In addition, he will participate in selected races of the Champions of the Future Academy Program—a premier “Arrive and Drive” international karting series designed to nurture the next generation of motorsport talent. Ultimately, Mohammed’s next goal is to make the leap into the highly competitive world of Formula 4 championships.
Talking about the same, Yohan Poonawalla, Chairman, Poonawalla Group, shared, “We have always believed in the transformative power of opportunity, especially when offered to those who show unwavering passion and potential. Supporting Mohammed at this pivotal stage in his racing career is something we are proud to be a part of, and we look forward to him excelling in the sport.”
Michelle Poonawalla, Director, Poonawalla Group, added, “Young talents like Mohammed deserve every chance to pursue their dreams on a global stage. We are excited to see him unlock new levels and where this journey takes him.”
In response to the sponsorship, Mohammed and his family expressed their heartfelt gratitude, “We want to extend our deepest thanks to Yohan and Michelle Poonawalla for their generous sponsorship and belief in this journey. I am pursuing this dream with unwavering focus and determination, and having them as part of this journey gives me the strength to aim higher and push further.”
This partnership between the Poonawalla family and Mohammed Mneimneh marks a compelling chapter in international motorsport, one that underscores the power of collaboration in fueling dreams and creating world-class champions.