Nairobi, Kenya – KCB Bank has announced Oscar Ntambi, alongside his co-driver Asuman Muhammed, as one of its sponsored drivers for the upcoming World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally in Kenya. The announcement was made during a sponsorship unveiling ceremony, at which KCB Bank Kenya committed KShs 227 million to the 2026 edition of the iconic rally.
This 2026 investment marks KCB’s sixth consecutive year of sponsorship since the Safari Rally’s return to the WRC calendar, and the funding is distributed to maximise both the event’s success and talent development.
Edgar Byamah, Managing Director of KCB Bank Uganda, emphasised the Bank’s commitment to nurturing and growing motorsport across the region.
He said, “We are excited to see Oscar Ntambi now representing Uganda on the world stage. We have played a pivotal role in his rally journey in Uganda, and his unique racing style has contributed to the growth of motorsport not only locally but beyond our borders. Supporting him at the WRC Safari Rally is a dream come true for us, as we proudly stand behind a driver who truly embodies Ugandan resilience.”
He added that KCB Bank has been at the forefront of supporting and championing motorsport. Guided by its ‘For People. For Better.’ promise, KCB is committed to ensuring that local talent receives the technical and financial backing needed to compete on the global stage. It is a proud moment for the Bank as it helps young people access world-class platforms.
Scheduled for 12th–15th March 2026, this year’s rally introduces a refined schedule featuring 20 special stages covering 350.02 competitive kilometres. Moving away from the traditional Nairobi flag-off, the event will be centred in Naivasha to meet new FIA regulations regarding crew working hours.
The 2026 entry list features global titans, including Sébastien Ogier, Thierry Neuville, and defending champion Elfyn Evans, alongside manufacturers Toyota, Hyundai, ŠKODA, and M-Sport Ford.
KCB Bank Uganda’s support for sports development reflects its broader commitment to community engagement. From the KCB KOBs rugby team and golf tournaments to the Nkumba University volleyball team and various community initiatives, the Bank aims to help disciplined athletes transition from local success to international recognition.
The rally will cover a total competitive distance of 350.02 kilometres, supported by a liaison distance of 842.9 kilometres, in line with FIA requirements. The four-day event will be based in Naivasha, a move designed to meet the FIA 2026 sporting regulations on distances and crew working hours, departing from the usual ceremonial flag-off in Nairobi.
On Thursday, 12th March, there will be a shakedown at the newly introduced Nawisa stage. This will be followed by a ceremonial flag-off before the cars tackle the Camp Moran and Mzabibu stages. On Friday, 13th March, competitors will pass through Camp Moran, Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong stages. On Saturday, 14th March, the action will head to Soysambu, Elementaita, and Sleeping Warrior, before concluding with an autograph-signing session at Mzabibu.
Sunday, 15th March, marks an electrifying day of action as cars set off from Oserengoni and Hell’s Gate before heading to the Wolf Power Stage in the afternoon, culminating in the prize-giving ceremony.
While representing KCB Bank Uganda and supported by KCB Bank Kenya, Ntambi will pilot a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X built by Ralliart, a machine renowned for the durability required to conquer the Safari Rally’s demanding terrain.
Speaking at the launch, Ntambi shared his excitement, saying, “Representing KCB Bank Uganda at the WRC is a great honour. This journey, born from a passion for speed, is now about showcasing Ugandan motorsport to the world. I thank KCB Bank for providing the support and equipment needed to compete at this high level.”
As Ntambi gears up to take on the Safari Rally’s demanding and dusty stages, KCB Bank Uganda has called on Ugandans to rally behind him. The Bank is also rewarding customers who transact using the KCB Mobile Banking App or *244# with VIP tickets to watch the Safari Rally live in Kenya, bringing the excitement of the WRC closer to fans who support the sport.
