With two rounds of the 2025 African Rally Championship (ARC) now in the books, all eyes turn to Rwanda as the motorsport spotlight shifts to the much-anticipated 2025 Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally, set to take place from July 4th to 6th in the picturesque Bugesera District, Eastern Province.
The championship’s journey began with a dramatic opener at the Kenya Safari Rally, which was conquered by rally legend Carl Tundo alongside co-driver Tim Jessop. That was followed by a thrilling second round in Uganda, where Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan claimed victory in the Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally after a late twist in the lead battle. Now, the competition heads to the heart of the “land of a thousand hills” for Round 3 of the ARC.
The Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally, organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC), has earned a reputation as one of the most scenic and challenging events on the ARC calendar. This year’s return to Bugesera is expected to attract top regional contenders and motorsport fans from across the continent.
RAC Secretary General François Cyatangabo confirmed that preparations are progressing smoothly and anticipates a strong turnout for the event.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure that the Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally continues to improve each year. Last year’s edition went well. This time, we want it to be even better, and we expect to receive more crews this year,” Cyatangabo said.
Registration is now open and will close at the end of June 2025, as the countdown to the Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally intensifies. All eyes are firmly fixed on Karan Patel, the reigning champion, who is fired up to defend his ARC crown behind the wheel of his Skoda Fabia R5. But the challenge won’t come easily. Uganda’s Yasin Nasser, currently topping the ARC standings with 63 points from the first two rounds, is gearing up to push Patel to the limit in a fierce battle for supremacy.
Patel will also have to keep an eye on fellow Kenyan Samman Vohra, co-driven by Drew Sturrock, who pilots a similar Skoda Fabia R5. Vohra gave Patel a serious challenge in Uganda, leading the rally until a dramatic crash on the final day handed the win to Patel. Their rematch in Rwanda promises to be a headline showdown.
ARC 2025 Standings After Two Rounds
- Yasin Nasser (Uganda) – 63 points
- Nikhil Sachania (Kenya) – 50 points
- Carl Tundo (Kenya) – 50 points
- Jeremiah Wahome (Kenya) – 42 points
- Samman Vohra (Kenya) – 36 points
- Karan Patel (Kenya) – 35 points
Other expected entries include strong crews from Uganda and Burundi, further intensifying the competition.
The Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally is the third of six ARC rounds in 2025. Following the Rwandan leg, the championship moves to Burundi (August 15–17) before wrapping up with the final showdown from September 19–21.
As the countdown begins, fans and competitors alike anticipate a rally that not only challenges drivers with its demanding terrain but also highlights Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and growing motorsport heritage.
From seasoned champions to ambitious underdogs, the 2025 Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally promises high-speed drama, fierce rivalries, and a celebration of African motorsport excellence.
