Kundar sets fastest lap as National Karting Championship roars into action

Youngster Devansh Kundar registered the fastest lap of the day during the opening round of the National Karting Championship at Meraki Karting Circuit in Bugolobi.

Kundar posted a time of 22.556 seconds in the cadet class at the event held on Sunday, 22 March 2026, winning two accolades: cadet class winner and fastest driver of the day.

Clerk of the Course Emmanuel Watenga attributed the performance to the regular driving time the Formula One Association of Uganda provides racers through consistent competitions and training.

He lauded parents for supporting their children limitlessly to develop their talents and also promote the sport.

Formula 1 Uganda Association officials with winners of the 1st round of the National Karting Championship in Bugolobi. PHOTO: Johnson Were

Watenga added that this year, the national championship will feature five rounds, two more than last year, and will be held across three venues: Lubowa, Busiika, and Bugolobi.

Raymond Mugisha, president of the Formula One Association of Uganda, urged participants to read and understand the regulations governing the sport before heading to the international stage this year.

He also called on them to remain disciplined if they are to succeed in pursuing their dreams.

“Our focus is to nurture the drivers’ talents and give them directions to where they go. We are looking at competing with Kenya this year before we explore European opportunities. However, I request that drivers and managers read and understand the rules,” Mugisha said.

“We do not want to enter international competitions and get disqualified because of a breach of regulations,” he added.

At the event, Devansh Kundar won the cadet class, Lucy Kakuru triumphed in the ladies’ category, and Victor Keije took top honours in the pro class.

Joshua Mayanja, deputy vice president of automobile at the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda, expressed excitement at the increased turnout of participants.

“The rate at which the sport is growing has pushed us to plan for the manufacture of these karts locally so that competitors can get them at a lower cost,” Mayanja said.

The championship is supported by Rut Café, Shell, Pepsi, and Meraki Circuit.

National Karting Championship results

Cardet Class

1.Devansh Kunder 22:556 seconds.

2.Hussein Ahmed 24:800

3.Rajdev Dodia 24:912

Ladies Class

Lucy Kakuru 24:273

Pro Class

1.Keije Victor 24:554

2.Salim Mohamed 24:730

3.Omar Rashid 25:043

Devansh Kundar 22:556