Title race tilted as Lwakataka, Kaguta pull out of Kabalega Rally

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Fervent supporters of the Mafu Mafu Rally Team, led by Ponsiano Lwakataka, the Sodo Rally Team of Godfrey Aine Kaguta, the Fond Rally Team headed by Dr Godfrey Nsereko and the NASH Rally Team of Nasser Mutebi are reeling from disappointment following the withdrawal of their star drivers from the  Kabalega Rally. 

The event, which serves as the grand finale of the season, was expected to determine the overall champions of the year.

Although each of the drivers had already paid the required registration fees, a series of unforeseen circumstances has forced them to pull out of the competition.

Among the most notable absentees is Lwakataka, whose withdrawal has left a significant void in the lineup. He cited severe financial constraints as the reason for his decision and expressed regret to his supporters.

“I extend my sincerest apologies to my loyal fans, many of whom have contributed financially to facilitate my participation in the Hoima event,” Lwakataka stated. 

“Regrettably, our car’s involvement in an accident during the Gulu event has necessitated the procurement of costly spare parts, a financial burden we have been unable to overcome alongside other essential expenses.”

Lwakataka currently sits third in the overall National Rally Championship standings with 235 points and has been in outstanding form throughout the season. He has secured four victories from the six events he has completed, making his absence from the Hoima finale even more significant.

Historically, the Hoima terrain has been favourable for him, and he has consistently demonstrated his skill and competitive edge there.

The only two events he failed to finish this year were the Pearl Rally and the Gulu event, both due to mechanical failures in his Subaru Impreza N12B which forced him to retire prematurely. The lingering effects of the Gulu accident have now deprived him of the chance to contest the season’s decisive showdown.

Meanwhile, Godfrey Aine Kaguta has also been compelled to withdraw, reportedly because of an overwhelming schedule. Kaguta is currently occupied with his political campaign as he contests for the Mawogola North parliamentary seat, leaving him without adequate time to prepare for the rally. Other drivers have also failed to make the starting list, many citing mechanical challenges affecting their cars.

The absence of Lwakataka, who had been expected to challenge championship leader Ronald Ssebuguzi, significantly alters the competitive landscape. 

Ssebuguzi, who currently leads the NRC standings with 294 points, now has a clearer path to securing the title. His nearest rival, Musa Ssegaabwe, trails with 241.5 points, making Lwakataka’s withdrawal a critical factor in the title race.

According to clerk of the course Charles Ssemengo, the Kabalega Rally will run over two days and cover a total of 230 kilometres, including 120 competitive kilometres and 110 kilometres of transport distance.

Despite the withdrawals, the event is expected to proceed with considerable anticipation as the remaining drivers battle for the national crown.