By The Arusha News Reporter
The motorsport spotlight turns to Arusha today as the Guru Nanak–Mkwawa Rally gets under way at the Makuyuni Circuit, marking the final round of the National Rally Championship (NRC).
The two-day rally, running today and tomorrow, has attracted the country’s leading rally drivers, with the overall NRC title set to be decided on the fast and dusty Makuyuni stages. Seventeen top crews, including three entries from Kenya, are expected to compete in what is traditionally one of the most demanding events on the national calendar.
Championship leader Ahmed Huwel (Car No. 10) starts the rally as the favourite, having accumulated 105 points so far this season. Driving a Toyota Yaris Gazoo, Huwel is aiming for a strong finish that would secure him the national crown.
Hot on his heels is Randeep Singh, currently second in the standings with 88 points. Singh is expected to mount an aggressive challenge over the two days as he seeks to overturn the championship lead. Waleed Nahdi, on 80 points, also remains in contention and could yet play a decisive role in the title fight.
Manveer Singh Birdi and co-driver Victor Jackson, competing in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (Car No. 1), will also be chasing a top position.
Arusha’s own Gurpal Sandhu, driving a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, is expected to be the region’s main attraction. Navigated by Dave Sihoka, Sandhu will roll off the podium in Car No. 2.
“We have trained hard and we are ready,” Sandhu told The Arusha News, promising his supporters an exciting start and finish.
The Guru Nanak–Mkwawa Rally was initially scheduled for late last year but was postponed and rescheduled to January, where it now serves as the championship decider, according to Arusha Motor Sports Club Secretary Monica Lyimo. She added that the Makuyuni terrain will test drivers’ skill, speed and endurance, with little margin for error.
With championship points on the line and pride at stake, the Arusha showdown is expected to deliver a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 NRC season.
