The gloves are off! Manveer Birdi, Tanzania’s 2024 National Rally Champion, is gearing up for a comeback with a vengeance. After two heartbreaking defeats, he’s traded in the Evo 9 for a Skoda Fabia Evo – the same beast that propelled Kenya’s Samman Vohra Singh to glory. This isn’t just a new car; it’s a statement.
The ASAS Rally Team’s bold move has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community. Manveer’s debut in the Fabia Evo at the legendary Rally of Iringa promises to be a wild ride. “New car. No excuses. Same target: the top step of the podium.” says the buzz.
And he’s not alone – brother Randeep Birdi is also stepping up with a Ford Fiesta Proto, running under the ASAS banner. These brothers are hungry, armed, and ready to make their mark.
This is a big statement from Asas. Going from R4 to Fabia Rally2 for the season opener shows they’re chasing the TNRCA title, not just class wins. ASAS won’t have it easy, but the Fabia gives them the pace to mix it up. Local Tanzania crews will push hard on home roads too, Pacenotes will make or break their rallies.
Since Kisarawe was postponed, NRC Iringa Round 1 will be the first time testing the Skoda Fabia. This thing eats high-altitude stages. 290hp but loses 20% power at Iringa’s 1800m, so setup plus driver adaptation will be key. The rocks/puncture risk is the only worry, Iringa shreds tyres because of its gravel nature.The event is happening from 6th to 7th June and ASAS can grab maximum points from day 1.
