Engines roared to life this morning at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu as the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally kicked off, marking the sixth round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC).
Organised by the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) and the Central Motor Club (CMC), the two-day event honours the late Rajiv Ruparelia, a passionate rally driver whose energy and vision helped rejuvenate Uganda’s motorsport scene.
Rajiv’s involvement in rallying inspired many young drivers and attracted fresh interest in the sport. Even after stepping back from competition, he continued to mentor and promote safety and innovation until his tragic death in May this year.
At the launch of the event, his close friend Gideon Kirumira, CEO of Trigger Enterprises, hailed him as “a great mind, a brother, and a father figure who gave more than he ever received.”
The rally also carries major title implications. Ronald Sebuguzi and co-driver Anthony Mugambwa lead the NRC standings with 241 points, followed closely by Ponsiano Lwakataka on 235 points and Musa Ssegaabwe with 207.5 points.
As drivers battle through Gulu’s demanding terrain, the rally stands as both a fierce championship contest and a heartfelt tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia’s enduring legacy in Ugandan motorsport.
