Hassan Alwi claims redemption at 2026 Mbale Rally
The win was especially meaningful as it echoed his dramatic 2018 Oryx Energies Elgon Rally, one of the most bittersweet moments of his career.
Hassan Alwi in action. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
2026 MPU Mbale Rally
Hassan Alwi 1:12:42
Moses Lumala 1:16:11
Stefano Valeri 1:16:27
Oscar Ntambi 1:17:47
Nasser Mutebi 1:18:02
Ugandan rally driver Hassan Alwi turned past heartbreak into triumph with a commanding victory at the 2026 Motorsport Promo Uganda Mbale Rally, held across the challenging terrains of Bukedea, Mbale, and Budaka districts.
The win was especially meaningful as it echoed his dramatic 2018 Oryx Energies Elgon Rally, one of the most bittersweet moments of his career.
Back then, Alwi delivered a near-flawless performance, leading from the start and appearing certain to win. But in the final stage, a puncture led to an unauthorized mechanical intervention.
Stewards imposed a 10-minute penalty, dropping him from first to third place. The victory was inherited by Suzan Muwonge, known as "Super Lady," and her navigator Edmond Kyeyune.
Years later, with the rally returning to Mbale, Alwi arrived as a man on a mission. Channeling his past disappointment into focus, he delivered a disciplined and authoritative performance. From the outset, he set the pace, combining raw speed with precision, and extended his lead stage by stage.
With experienced navigator Musa Nsubuga, Alwi drove his Ford Fiesta Proto to a cumulative time of 1:12:42, showcasing technical excellence and strategic composure.
Defending NRC champion Ronald Ssebuguzi faced a mechanical problem just a few kilometers from the finish. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
Veteran driver Moses Lumala made a remarkable return after a 20-year hiatus, securing second place with a time of 1:16:11. Ethiopia’s Stefano Valeri finished third in 1:16:27, highlighting the event's growing regional competitiveness.
Disqualification drama
Musa Ssegaabwe, who initially secured second place, was disqualified following a stewards' inquiry.
Investigations revealed his crew allegedly received external assistance during a liaison section between stages six and seven after mechanical difficulties, a violation of rally rules.
The breach of FMU 2026 National Competition Regulations, Article 56.1, cost him his podium finish and reshaped the final classification.