The engines are set to roar again in Western Uganda as the 2026 Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally (POAUR) returns to the breathtaking landscapes of Mbarara and Kiruhura delivering far more than just motorsport.
Scheduled for May 7th to 9th, 2026, this iconic event stands tall as Round 2 of both the FIA African Rally Championship (ARC) and the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC). It’s a defining moment on the African motorsport calendar, drawing elite drivers, powerful machines, and passionate fans from across the continent.
But this rally is not just about speed.
It is a celebration of Uganda’s identity as the “Pearl of Africa.”
From the rolling hills of Ankole to the rich cultural heritage of the region, organizers have intentionally brought the rally back to Mbarara and Kiruhura to showcase a deeper story where motorsport meets culture, history, and nature. The landscapes promise stunning backdrops, while the unpredictable weather adds a layer of drama, often turning the gravel stages into slippery and technical battlegrounds.
One of the most unique aspects of this year’s rally is the naming of its stages, each one carrying meaning rooted in legacy, heritage, and community pride.
The Charles Muhangi Stage honors the late Charles Muhangi, a 1999 ARC champion whose impact on Ugandan rallying remains unforgettable.
The Kaguta Stage recognizes Kaguta family, celebrating both motorsport passion and leadership.
The Ankole Cow Stage reflects the region’s cultural symbol representing identity, pride, and tradition.
The Mama Stage pays tribute to the late mother of rally driver Moses Lumala, adding a deeply emotional connection to the competition.
And the Rukaari Stage acknowledges Mwesigwa Rukaari for his contribution to motorsport through the development of rally infrastructure in the region.
These names transform the rally into more than a race, they make it a journey through stories, people, and legacy.
Covering a total distance of 569.16 km, with 201.85 km of competitive stages, the rally will test endurance, precision, and strategy across 12 demanding sections. Activities begin with recce on May 5th–6th, followed by scrutineering at Shell Makenke, and a thrilling shakedown and qualifying session on May 7th. The real action unfolds on May 8th and 9th, including the fan-favorite Super Special Stage at Rukaari.
According to Clerk of the Course Kisitu Mayanja, this year’s edition is built for intensity. With new rally machines entering the NRC category and strong international entries confirmed for ARC, the competition is expected to be fierce. Established champions, rising stars, and seasoned veterans will all be fighting for supremacy.
And if history is anything to go by, the weather could be the ultimate game-changer.
As rain transforms the terrain, drivers will need more than speed—they’ll need control, adaptability, and nerves of steel.
With anticipation already at a fever pitch, rally fans across Uganda and beyond are gearing up for an unforgettable spectacle. The 2026 Shell V-Power POAUR promises a powerful fusion of speed, skill, culture, and nature where every stage tells a story and every kilometer matters.
Western Uganda is ready. The continent is watching. The battle begins.
Photo credit: Gerald kikulwe
