The phrase "a potential rival for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing competition or rivalry between entities, such as companies, individuals, or teams.
Example: "The new startup is seen as a potential rival for the established tech giant in the market."
Alternatives: "a possible competitor to" or "a likely challenger for".
But his strength makes him a potential rival for those who have aspirations in the next elections, analysts said.
Some see Johnson's decision not to wait for government authorisation as a slight to May, a potential rival for the future leadership of the Conservative party.
O.J.'s actions succeeded in simultaneously removing a potential rival for Nicole's affections and taking money out of his ex-wife's pocket.
The other is Raj Thackeray, who broke away from the Shiv Sena in 2006 to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, a potential rival for the B.J.P's affections.
The "dark figure" Mrs. Kirchner points to is Mauricio Macri, the center-right mayor of Buenos Aires and a potential rival for the presidency.
Notably, she praised Mr Gore (now a potential rival for 2008, whatever he says) as a "committed visionary on global warming for more than two decades".
Mr. Gore knew from the outset that an active role in guiding Russia toward a new role in the world would distinguish him from any potential rival for the presidency.
He prefers, it seems, to have the driving seat to himself, without a potential rival fighting for the wheel.
Since his failed bid for Vice-President, Ryan has been seen as a potential rival to Cantor for the Speaker's job in a post-Boehner House.
A potential rival to Mr. Ryan for the nomination, should both decide to run, is Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, who was among only eight senators to vote no, the first clear demarcation between the two men since the election.
Nicky Morgan, the education secretary, who has been touted as a potential rival to Osborne for the Conservative leadership when Cameron steps down, is expected to give more details of the plan for the education shakeup when she opens the House of Commons debate on the budget on Thursday.
