Masaka is set for a full weekend of dust, speed and pressure as scrutineering got under way at Shell Masaka Highway ahead of the SMC Challenge Rally, Round 3 of the 2026 KCB Uganda National Rally Championship.
The event runs from 19 to 20 June across the Greater Masaka region, with organisers promising fast stages, big crowds and a real test of both pace and reliability under the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda calendar.
The championship picture has already started to take shape, with Hassan Alwi Jr and co driver Musa Nsubuga leading the standings in their Ford Fiesta Proto after two rounds. The pair have set the early benchmark with around 118 points, built on clean runs, strong pace and a calm approach through tricky conditions that have caught out several rivals.
Their closest challengers are keeping the pressure alive. Umar Dauda sits second on roughly 82.5 points, with Duncan Mubiru close behind on about 79 points, leaving the title race open as the season reaches its mid point. With around 37 crews expected to line up in Masaka, the gap at the top is under real threat if Alwi slips, even slightly.
Round 3 brings a mix of speed and technical demands that could reshape the standings. Friday’s stages will sweep through Masaka toward Nabugabo Sand Beach, where fast sections are expected to reward brave driving. Saturday shifts into the Sembabule area, where rougher terrain and mechanical strain are likely to play a bigger role around Sembabule.
The season has already delivered drama and momentum swings. The opener in eastern Uganda saw Alwi Jr strike early with a commanding win, setting the tone for his title push. Round 2, the Shell V Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, brought international competition into the mix, with Kenyan crews dominating overall honours while local star Godfrey Kaguta Aine led the Ugandan field and kept national hopes alive in a tough field.
Backed by strong sponsorship from KCB Bank and growing interest across the country, the championship has built steady momentum heading into Masaka. Local fans are expected to turn out in large numbers, adding atmosphere to what is shaping up as a key turning point in the 2026 season.
With the field tightening behind him, Alwi Jr arrives as the man to beat, but Masaka has a reputation for surprises. One mistake, one mechanical issue, or one perfect stage from a rival could quickly change the title story as the rally heads into its most intense stretch yet.
