The excitement surrounding the 2025 Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally (POAUR) is reaching a fever pitch, with a staggering 53 crews officially confirmed for the prestigious event. Scheduled to take place from Thursday, 8th April 2025, this year’s rally is not just any event—it’s a celebration of speed, power, and competition. The rally is set to serve as the second round of the African Rally Championship (ARC2) and the third round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC3), drawing elite drivers from all over.
With 13 crews registered for the ARC, the event is shaping up to be an adrenaline-fueled spectacle. Leading the charge in the ARC is reigning African Rally Champion Karan Patel, who returns to Uganda with co-driver Tauseef Khan, eager to reclaim his title after missing out on points in the season opener. The Kenyan duo, behind the wheel of their Škoda Fabia R5, is sure to bring the heat to the Ugandan rally scene.
Also in the mix are Kenyan rally champion Samman Vohra and his co-driver Drew Sturrock, whose powerful presence adds to the anticipation. Another pair of fan-favorites making their return are Hamza Anwar and Adinan Din, who set the Pearl Rally ablaze last year with their thrilling performance and are back with even more fire in their engines.
On the local front, the competition is fierce, with Uganda’s hopes pinned on the MOIL-sponsored duo of Yasin Nasser and Ali Katumba. Driving their powerful Ford Fiesta R5, the pair are hot on the heels of the ARC points and looking to capitalize on their home advantage. Fans will also be looking forward to the return of Susan “Super Lady” Muwonge, who’s making her comeback with co-driver Musa Nsubuga, promising to light up the rally once again.
As the battle for the NRC title intensifies, Ponsiano Lwakataka, who has dominated the first two rounds of the season, is aiming to extend his lead. Meanwhile, Duncan “Kikankane” Mubiru and Ronald Sebuguzi are set to give Lwakataka a run for his money, with their powerful machines and unwavering determination.
Newcomers to the scene, including Dr. Moustapha Mukasa and Omar Mayanja, are also ready to shake things up with their newly rebuilt Mitsubishi Evo 9.
Behind the scenes, preparations are underway across Uganda, with garages bustling as teams make final adjustments to their cars. The atmosphere is electric, with rally fans in Mbarara eagerly awaiting the convoy of crews to roll into town ahead of the recce sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday.
