NRC Title Fight Heads to Masaka for SMC Challenge Rally
The opening two rounds of the 2026 KCB National Rally Championship are now done and dusted, and if the first half of the season is anything to go by, Ugandan rally fans are in for one unforgettable championship battle. Round two delivered drama, heartbreak, fierce competition, and moments that will remain in the memories of many crews and fans alike. But as the dust settles, the championship caravan now heads for what many competitors have always described as one of the most enjoyable and budget-friendly events on the calendar the much-anticipated SMC Challenge Rally.
It is once again that exciting time of the year when the rally fraternity descends on the vibrant Greater Masaka region for the third round of the KCB NRC, scheduled to take place from 19th to 20th June 2026. Over the years, the SMC Challenge Rally has built a reputation for delivering smooth and flowing roads, manageable logistics for crews, and unforgettable nightlife and fan experiences in Masaka City. From the competitive stages to the electrifying atmosphere around service parks and hangout spots, Masaka has consistently proven why it remains one of the favorite destinations for rally enthusiasts across the country.
This year’s edition will cover a total distance of 303.88 kilometres, of which 126.71 kilometres will be competitive sections while 177.17 kilometres will be liaison stages. Day one of the rally, scheduled for Friday 19th June, will take crews through stages around Masaka proceeding to Nabugabo Sand Beach, where one stage will be repeated before fans are treated to the always-thrilling Super Special Stage later in the afternoon. The beachside atmosphere, roaring engines, clouds of dust, music, and massive crowds are expected to once again create an unforgettable rally spectacle.
On Saturday 20th June, crews will head to Sembabule sections for day two action, where endurance, speed, and consistency are expected to play a major role in determining who stands tallest at the finish line.
As the championship heads into round three, all eyes remain firmly fixed on championship leaders Hassin Alwi Jr and co-driver Musa Nsubuga, who currently command the standings with an impressive 118 points following dominant performances in the opening two rounds. Their consistency and pace have made them the early team to beat this season.
Not too far behind are Umar Dauda and Steven Bunya on 82.5 points, keeping their championship hopes alive as they continue to pile pressure on the leaders. The experienced Duncan Mubiru, despite suffering a disappointing start to the season in Mbale, sits third overall with 79 points and remains a dangerous contender capable of bouncing back strongly in Masaka.
Tanzania’s Randeep Singh occupies fourth position with 77 points after a superb outing during the Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally in Mbarara, where he emerged victorious in the NRC category and announced himself as a serious championship challenger.
Completing the top five is former national champion Yasin Nasser on 73 points. Although he has yet to fully stamp his authority on the season, few would rule out the experienced driver from mounting a comeback as the championship progresses.
With only two rounds completed and six more still remaining on the calendar, the 2026 KCB National Rally Championship remains very much wide open. Every point now matters, every stage becomes crucial, and every mistake could prove costly in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive rally seasons in recent years. After the Masaka showdown, the championship battle will then shift eastwards to Soroti for round four, where another chapter of high-speed drama awaits Uganda’s rallying faithful.
