The Shell Vpower Pearl Of Africa Uganda Rally 2026 Driver Profile

Randeep Singh Birdi


Nickname: “Sunny”
Nationality: Tanzanian

Date of Birth : 13th June 1985
Place of Residence:
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Codriver: Manmeet Birdi

Team: ASAS Rally Team

Car: Ford fiesta Proto

 

Overview

Randeep Singh Birdi, popularly known as “Sunny,” is a no-nonsense and highly respected rally driver from Dar es Salaam. Renowned for his consistency, longevity, and success, Birdi has established himself as one of the leading figures in the Tanzania National Rally Championship. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a fast and calculated competitor, regularly battling top drivers across East Africa.

Entry into Motorsport

Born into a motorsport-oriented family, Randeep is the son of Satinder Birdi, a former Tanzanian rally champion. Growing up in such an environment, he developed a deep passion for rallying from an early age. He began his competitive career in the mid-2000s and quickly showed promise, impressing in both national and regional competitions, including the FIA Africa Rally Championship. His rapid rise saw him emerge as one of Tanzania’s top rally prospects.

Codriver Partnership

Throughout his career, Birdi has worked with several experienced co-drivers who have contributed to his success. Notably, Manmeet Singh partnered with him during his dominant 2024 championship-winning season. He has also teamed up with Zubayr Piredina and Sahib Singh in earlier campaigns. These partnerships have ensured strong communication, precision pace-notes, and consistency on rally stages.

Vehicle

Randeep has built much of his success behind the wheel of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution machinery, including the Evo 7, Evo 9, and Evo X cars that have delivered numerous victories for him. In recent seasons, he has also competed in a Ford Proto, demonstrating his adaptability and ability to extract performance from different rally cars while maintaining his competitive edge.

Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally Outlook

This year’s Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally marks Birdi’s return to Ugandan soil, making it his second competitive outing in the country after his appearance at the 2024 Champions Sprint in Busiika. Heading into the event, he aims to shake up the established order, challenge the local frontrunners, and showcase his experience on unfamiliar terrain. With his aggressive but strategic driving style, he will not only be targeting strong results but also looking to enjoy the thrill of competition on Uganda’s stages.

Summary

Randeep Singh Birdi stands as one of Tanzania’s most accomplished and enduring rally drivers. From his early rise in the mid-2000s to becoming a national champion and consistent front-runner, his career shows discipline, experience, and resilience. Bridging generations in the sport, Birdi continues to inspire upcoming drivers while maintaining his place among East Africa’s elite.