A wave of excitement is sweeping across Uganda as local motorsport hero Oscar Ntambi prepares to make his mark on the global stage, representing the nation at the prestigious 2026 WRC Safari Rally in Kenya. With the crucial backing of KCB Bank Uganda, Ntambi will be behind the wheel of a formidable Ralliart-built Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X, ready to tackle the rally’s notorious terrain and go head-to-head with international titans like Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville.
The 2026 WRC Safari Rally Kenya, running from March 12-15, 2026, in Naivasha, marks the third round of the World Rally Championship season. This epic event will push competitors to their limits across 20 special stages, spanning an grueling 350.52 kilometers of punishing gravel. The Safari Rally isn’t just a race; it’s widely regarded as the toughest, most unforgiving, and physically demanding event on the entire WRC calendar. It’s a true test of raw endurance, challenging even the most seasoned teams with its treacherous, rutted, and rocky roads, deep mud sections, and the ever-present threat of unpredictable, heavy rainfall.
The rally kicks off on Thursday morning with a shakedown at the Nawisa test, followed by the initial competitive stages at Camp Moran and Mzabibu. Rally legend Sébastien Ogier is slated to make a highly anticipated return to the Safari, rejoining the action after his absence from the snow-covered Rally Sweden.
The thrilling stages will wind through iconic locations including Camp Moran, Loldia, Kedong, Sleeping Warrior, Elementaita, Soysambu, and the dramatic Hell’s Gate National Park. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Friday, March 12, 2026: The longest and most demanding day features eight stages, with double runs of Loldia, Kengen Geothermal, Kedong, and Camp Moran, covering a monumental 136.55 competitive kilometers.
- Saturday, March 13, 2026: Six intense stages await, as drivers navigate double runs across Soysambu, Elementaita, and Sleeping Warrior, totaling 123 kilometers.
- Sunday, March 14, 2026: The grand finale! Four decisive stages, including Oserengoni and Hell’s Gate, culminate in the iconic Hell’s Gate Power Stage, where the final standings and ultimate glory will be determined.
