Ugandan rally driver Oscar Ntambi has earned backing from KCB Bank ahead of the 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, following a substantial sponsorship commitment by the regional lender toward the prestigious event.
The sponsorship was confirmed yesterday in Nairobi, where KCB Bank Kenya unveiled a KShs 227 million package for the 2026 Safari Rally. Ntambi and his co-driver, Asuman Muhammed, were officially introduced as part of the drivers set to benefit from the support.
This marks the sixth straight year that KCB has invested in the Safari Rally since its return to the WRC calendar. The funding is intended to enhance event organization while also promoting and developing motorsport talent across the region.
KCB Bank Uganda Managing Director Edgar Byamah described Ntambi’s selection as a significant moment for both the bank and Uganda’s motorsport fraternity.
“Oscar Ntambi’s presence on the world stage is a proud achievement for Uganda. We have supported his rally career locally, and his distinctive racing style has helped grow motorsport both at home and beyond. Backing him at the WRC Safari Rally is a dream realised, as we stand firmly behind a driver who reflects true Ugandan resilience,” Byamah said.
He noted that through its For People. For Better. brand promise, KCB is dedicated to equipping local talent with the financial and technical support needed to compete at international level.
The 2026 WRC Safari Rally will take place from March 12 to 15 in Naivasha, in compliance with updated FIA regulations on rally distances and crew working hours. The event will feature 20 special stages covering 350.02 competitive kilometres, replacing the traditional ceremonial flag-off in Nairobi.
Top international drivers such as Sébastien Ogier, Thierry Neuville, and reigning champion Elfyn Evans are expected to headline the event, alongside manufacturers including Toyota, Hyundai, Škoda, and M-Sport Ford.
The rally action begins with a shakedown at the new Nawisa stage on March 12. Drivers will then navigate stages such as Camp Moran and Mzabibu, before tackling Camp Moran, Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong on March 13.
Competition intensifies on March 14 with stages at Soysambu, Elementaita, and Sleeping Warrior, alongside fan activities at Mzabibu. The rally concludes on March 15 with Oserengoni, Hell’s Gate, and the Wolf Power Stage, culminating in the prize-giving ceremony.
Ntambi will drive a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X prepared by Ralliart, a car renowned for its durability and suitability for the Safari Rally’s rugged terrain.
“It is a great honour to represent KCB Bank Uganda at the WRC. What started as a passion for speed has grown into an opportunity to showcase Ugandan motorsport globally. I am grateful to KCB for providing the resources and equipment necessary to compete at this level,” Ntambi said.
In addition to motorsport, KCB Bank Uganda supports various sporting disciplines including rugby, golf, and volleyball, as well as broader community empowerment initiatives.
