NRC title contender Didas Matsiko excited about night section inclusion

The 2025 National Rally Championship (NRC) reaches a critical juncture this weekend as competitors prepare for the decisive Bugerere STABEX EMC Jinja Rally, set to test drivers across the rugged terrains of Jinja and Kayunga from July 10–12.

With just three points separating 5th-placed Didas Matsiko from Duncan Mubiru in 4th, the title race remains wide open.

All top five contenders are still firmly in the hunt for the coveted national crown.

Mbarara-based driver Didas Matsiko, behind the wheel of his Subaru N14 and navigated by Joseph Bongole, is determined to shake up the standings.

“We’re targeting nothing less than a podium finish. It would massively boost our championship hopes,” Matsiko affirmed ahead of the event.

Duncan Mubiru “The Machine”, fresh off a second-place finish at the Pearl of Africa Rally, has re-energized his campaign.

Driving a Ford Fiesta Proto R5, his recent form signals a serious threat to those ahead of him in the standings.

Adding a new layer of challenge and excitement to this round is the introduction of a night driving section an innovation welcomed by most drivers.

“We back innovations that align with our vision. I actually drive better at night; this could help us gain time on rivals,” Matsiko added with confidence.

Competitors will face five high-speed stages totaling 154.46 competitive kilometers through Kayunga’s treacherous trails.

The demanding course is set to push machines to their limits and test the endurance of even the most seasoned drivers under intense championship pressure.

As the battle lines are drawn, the big question remains: Can Ronald Sebuguzi’s consistency carry him through?

Will Musa Ssegaabawe’s raw pace or Ponsiano Lwakataka’s tactical approach prevail?

One certainty remains Kayunga’s unforgiving terrain will separate true contenders from pretenders in a rally that promises nothing short of pure adrenaline.