A Preview of the 2026 National Rally Championship
The 2026 National Rally Championship (NRC) is yet to commence, but preparations across the country indicate a season of heightened competition, expanded participation, and significant developments both on and off the stages. With teams finalizing their programs and new machinery entering the championship, expectations are steadily rising ahead of the opening round.
One of the major highlights of the 2026 season is the expanded calendar. Unlike previous seasons that featured seven rounds, the upcoming championship will comprise eight events. This additional round increases competitive opportunities while also placing greater emphasis on consistency and reliability across the season. Of particular interest is the central round, which remains unconfirmed in terms of location and organizing club. Scheduled as the final event of the season, this round could prove decisive in determining championship outcomes, especially if points margins remain narrow heading into the finale.
Mbale returns to the National Rally Championship calendar as host of the opening round, marking a significant moment for the region. Meanwhile, Soroti and Katakwi will host Round Four, introducing new competitive stages that drivers and co-drivers have not previously encountered in NRC competition. The inclusion of fresh routes is expected to challenge crews’ pace note preparation, adaptability, and overall strategy.
Beyond the championship rounds, motorsport also received recognition within the Buganda Kingdom sports calendar. The Kabaka Birthday Sprint and the Coronation Sprint have both been listed, raising optimism about the possible return of motorsport activity at the Lubiri circuit. Should this materialize, it would mark an important cultural and sporting milestone for Ugandan motorsport.
Attention is firmly fixed on the competitive field, where several major developments are shaping the 2026 season. Musa Ssegaabwe and co-driver Mathias Kiyegga are awaiting the arrival of their Škoda Fabia N5, which is reportedly en route. The crew recently traveled to Spain for inspection and testing and are confident the car will significantly strengthen their championship campaign. The Fabia is expected to arrive early next month, ahead of the opening round.
In the two-wheel-drive category, Dr. Godfrey Nsereko has reinforced his campaign with the acquisition of a Toyota Etios R2 from South Africa. The early arrival of the car has allowed adequate time for preparation and familiarization, positioning the team strongly ahead of the season.
Joshua Muwanguzi, now competing in a Subaru GVB acquired from Yasin Nasser, has also drawn attention. Although the team’s debut at the Kabalega Hoima Rally did not result in a podium finish, a strong stage performance on the opening day highlighted the car’s potential. With increased seat time, the crew is expected to become increasingly competitive.
A notable driver change ahead of the season is Oscar Ntambi’s move from a Subaru N10 to a Mitsubishi Evo X Ralliart previously owned by Adam Rauf. The car’s public launch at Busiika and subsequent performance at the Champions Sprint demonstrated its competitiveness. A full rebuild is underway, with the intention of contesting both NRC and ARC events in 2026.
Moses Lumala, who continues to receive condolences following the loss of his mother, remains one of the most anticipated entries. His Ford Fiesta MK2 NRC Proto, acquired from Latvia, has generated considerable interest. After extensive private testing at the Mityana track, Lumala reappeared at the Champions Sprint in Busiika, signaling a return to competitive action.
Didas Matsiko is also preparing for the new season with an upgrade from a Subaru Impreza WRX to a Subaru Impreza GVB. Once the car debuts, the team is expected to add further intensity to an already competitive field.
Dr. Henry Maseruka and the Gazzlers Rally Team have opted for a significant step up, moving from a Toyota RunX to a Subaru Impreza N14 acquired from Zambia’s Miles Monge. The car is currently undergoing a full rebuild, while Dr. Maseruka continues training and testing in preparation for the transition. The vehicle is expected to arrive in Uganda by February.
Among the younger competitors, Kevin Bebeto has parted ways with his Subaru N10 and is actively seeking a new car suitable for both NRC and ARC competition. Although details remain undisclosed, his next move is highly anticipated within the rally community.
Fresh from their CRC 2025 success, Walter Kibande and his team are also stepping up. The Subaru GC8 that carried them to the title is being replaced by a Subaru Impreza N14, expected to arrive in the coming months. This move positions the team for a more competitive presence in the national championship.
This marks the first part of the 2026 NRC season preview. The second installment will focus on class changes, returning competitors, and emerging crews set to influence the championship landscape. As preparations continue, it is evident that the 2026 National Rally Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent years.
