General Secretary of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), Reynods Kibira, has shared his deep shock at the sudden death of businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia, describing the news as “one of the most shocking things” he has ever experienced.
Speaking on NBS Sport’s Breakfast Meeting, Kibira recalled receiving a call just before 5:00 AM breaking the devastating news.
Only days earlier, he had been in touch with Rajiv, who was looking forward to an upcoming Time Trial and drifting event scheduled for June in Jinja.
“He was in such a jolly mood,” Kibira said. “Then two days later, I get a call very early in the morning, and the words were ‘Nabbe agudde mu muzannyo omuwulidde.’ I replied, ‘Man, I have been sleeping. Anta Nabbe kii?’ It was one of the most shocking things.”
Kibira said he immediately notified the FMU executive and the Rally Drivers Forum.
He acknowledged the emotional weight the news carried for the entire motorsport fraternity, especially with the prestigious Pearl of Africa Rally just days away.
“For me, it’s a very sad week. We are going into the Pearl of Africa Rally, and this is not the best news you can hear. I am not sure how the mood will be like,” he added.
Rajiv Ruparelia died in a car accident on May 3, 2025. Known for his passion for motorsport, he served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Central Motor Club (CMC) and was a key promoter of motorsport events in Uganda.
