*Iran will host a FIA Middle East Rally Champi*onship (MERC) candidate event from September 24-26, ahead of its inclusion in the re*gional ****** from the next season. The Motorcycle and Automobile Federation of the Islamic Repub*lic of Iran (MAFIRI) while yes*terday confirming the dates, also an**unced that the rally would be held in the Shiraz region, with Hani Shaaban (above) named as manager of the trial event. The ceremonial start to the rally will be Wednesday, September 24, in front of the historical Quran Gate in Shiraz and following an overnight service in the parc ferme the competitive stages will run over two days from September 25-26.