Ugandan rally driver Oscar Ntambi has ended his remarkable 2026 season as the African Rally Championship 2 (ARC2) champion. Ntambi, who drove a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, finished the championship with 69 points, seven points ahead of Rwanda's Christian Kanangire. His title was built on strong performances in Kenya and Rwanda, showcasing his speed, consistency, and ability to recover from setbacks.
Ntambi's campaign began in March at the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, one of the toughest events on the World Rally Championship calendar. He made an immediate impression by winning the ARC2 category, finishing 22nd overall despite mechanical challenges, including a broken driveshaft and suspension damage. This victory gave Ntambi an early advantage in the ARC2 title race and marked an important milestone in his career.
KCB Bank's sponsorship played a crucial role in Ntambi's success, enabling him to compete beyond Uganda's national borders. The bank's Sh380 million sponsorship for Ugandan rally drivers, including Ntambi, Nasser Mutebi, and Mike Mukula Jr., helped keep his car running and allowed him to gain valuable experience in international rallying. Ntambi expressed his gratitude for the support, stating that without it, he would not have made it to the Safari Rally.
However, Ntambi's road to the continental title was not without setbacks. At the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, he retired, putting pressure on his title ambitions. Nevertheless, he regrouped and returned to the podium at the Mountain Gorilla Rally in Rwanda, finishing second in ARC2. This result put him firmly back in the championship fight and proved crucial to his eventual title.
The final chapter of the championship unfolded at the Serengeti Rally in Tanzania from October 2-4, 2026. Ntambi secured enough points to finish the season on 69 and claim the 2026 FIA African Rally Championship 2 title, seven points clear of Kanangire. This achievement demonstrates the growing potential of Ugandan drivers on the continental stage, according to FMU General Secretary Reynolds Kibira.
For Ntambi, the ARC2 crown represents the biggest continental achievement of his rallying career. He attributed his success to the hard work of his team and his ability to bounce back from difficult situations. Ntambi's 2026 season was a story of breakthrough and resilience, marked by his WRC debut, ARC2 victory at the Safari Rally Kenya, and eventual continental championship.
With KCB Bank's backing and the experience gained across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, Ntambi ends 2026 with a championship trophy and a stronger platform for the next stage of his international rallying career. His achievement serves as a testament to the impact of sporting talent matched with the necessary support to compete at a higher level.
Key points
- Oscar Ntambi wins African Rally Championship 2 title with 69 points
- KCB Bank's sponsorship played a crucial role in Ntambi's success
- Ntambi's 2026 season was marked by breakthroughs and resilience
