By Mwambazi Lawrence-

With the countdown to the opening round of the 2026 Uganda National Rally Championship firmly underway, Uganda’s rally drivers gathered this evening for a pivotal symposium held at Kati Kati Restaurant in Kampala. The meeting brought together drivers, navigators, and officials from the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda in a session aimed at aligning expectations ahead of what promises to be a demanding and competitive season.

The symposium served as a platform for open dialogue between competitors and the federation, with several key issues tabled for discussion. Central to the agenda were the 2026 National Competition Rules, the newly structured championship calendar, drivers’ insurance policy, and enhanced safety measures. The session reflected the federation’s commitment to strengthening governance and improving competitor welfare as motorsport continues to grow in popularity across the country.

FMU General Secretary Ray Kibira addressed participants on executive and administrative matters, offering clarity on regulatory adjustments and the federation’s broader strategic direction. Kibira emphasized the importance of compliance with competition rules, noting that the evolving nature of the sport demands continuous review of policies to maintain fairness and professionalism.

Safety remained a dominant theme throughout the evening. FMU official Moses Seguya guided competitors through updated safety guidelines, highlighting refinements in scrutineering procedures, safety equipment requirements, and stage management protocols. The new measures are intended to elevate event preparedness while safeguarding both competitors and spectators, particularly as rallying expands into new regions.

One of the most animated discussions of the night centered on the proposed addition of an eighth event to the 2026 championship calendar. The proposal, reportedly influenced by the National Council of Sports’ vision to spread motorsport activities to at least 75 percent of Uganda, sparked mixed reactions among competitors. While some drivers welcomed the move as an opportunity to broaden the sport’s footprint and attract new fans, others raised concerns about increased logistical demands and financial implications for teams already operating on tight budgets.

Despite differing opinions, the symposium concluded on a generally positive note, with participants acknowledging the value of dialogue in shaping a stronger championship. The gathering also reinforced a shared determination within the rally community to elevate standards both on and off the stages.

So as we  warm up for the season opener, the outcomes of the drivers symposium are expected to play a significant role in shaping the 2026 NRC campaign. For drivers and teams, the message was clear  beyond speed and skill, preparation, safety, and collaboration will be crucial ingredients in navigating the road ahead.