Ismail Otega returns to rally scene after seven years, eyes National Championship

Rally driver Ismail Otega, who had disappeared from the motorsport scene for seven years, has made a comeback.

Otega is remembered for his debut season in 2008 as a clubman rally championship driver when he won the title (CRC), surpassing many established competitors. 

He dominated the 2WD class, winning five titles (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2016) over seven years. Driving his Toyota Levin and occasionally a Toyota Runx, he became a formidable competitor not only locally but also in East and Central Africa, winning two 2WD championships in 2013 and 2016.

However, financial difficulties led to the loss of his cars and other businesses, prompting his disappearance from the sport. This year, Otega has returned with renewed vigor and a desire to rejoin the rally scene. 

“I don’t want to delve into the reasons for my disappearance, but it was mainly financial. I still aim to win the National Rally Championship (NRC), and I need $20,000 to acquire a car,” Otega explained.

The Federation of Motorsport Clubs in Uganda (FMU) and Southern Motor Club (SMC) were moved by Otega's return and have organized a sprint championship to welcome him back and raise funds for a new rally car. FMU Vice President Hamid Gombe announced the event, titled 'The Return of Ismail Otega SMC Fundraising Sprint,' scheduled for Sunday, October 27, at Festino Cite in Mukono.

“Otega expressed his passion for the sport but admitted financial struggles. All funds raised from this sprint will help him get a new rally car,” Gombe said.

This will be the second sprint championship on the calendar this season. According to Clerk of the Course Musa Nsubuga, they expect 50 drivers to cover a distance of 3.15km.