Arusha triumph boosts Sandhu’s drive for next NRC season
caption: Tanzania’s prominent driver Gurpal Sandhu competed in the recently concluded Guru Nanak Rally in Arusha, claiming victory and emerging as the top driver among Tanzanians.PHOTO/COURTESY
Sandhu, alongside his co-driver Dave Sihoka, completed the Guru Nanak Mkwawa Rally in Arusha with a time of 01:26:33.9, earning 34 points in a competitive field that featured 13 drivers—three of whom were unable to finish due to mechanical failures.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s prominent rally driver, Gurpal Singh Sandhu, has pledged to return even stronger in the upcoming National Rally Championships (NRC) after a strong finish in last season’s final event.
Sandhu, alongside his co-driver Dave Sihoka, completed the Guru Nanak Mkwawa Rally in Arusha with a time of 01:26:33.9, earning 34 points in a competitive field that featured 13 drivers—three of whom were unable to finish due to mechanical failures.
Reflecting on his performance, Sandhu said the final NRC event offered him a chance to end the season on a high note despite facing multiple challenges.
“I am happy to finish stronger in the final event of NRC. This was my determination, as I said before—let’s wait for the coming season. My target is to repeat this performance and be on the podium,” he told reporters.
Sandhu revealed that the 2025 NRC season had been a tough one, marred by punctures and other mechanical setbacks that affected his results. Yet, the driver’s resilience and determination saw him close the season on a positive note, demonstrating both skill and experience in handling adverse situations on the rally stage.
The Guru Nanak Mkwawa Rally, hosted in the scenic Arusha Region, served as a challenging finale, testing drivers on a mixture of rough terrain and demanding corners.
Sandhu’s victory not only boosted his confidence but also set the stage for careful preparation ahead of the next NRC calendar.
“I am now waiting for the schedule from the Automobile Association of Tanzania (AAT) so that I can plan properly for the 2026 season. Preparation is key in rallying, and I want to ensure that both my car and I are ready for every challenge that comes our way,” Sandhu added.
Fans and fellow competitors alike praised Sandhu’s performance, noting his ability to maintain composure under pressure and navigate the tricky Arusha terrain with precision. His consistent speed and strategic approach throughout the rally highlight why he remains one of Tanzania’s top drivers in the National Rally Championships.
With the NRC calendar for 2026 yet to be officially released, Sandhu is using the momentum from his strong finish to strategize and aim for consistent podium finishes throughout the upcoming season.
Rally enthusiasts across Tanzania now eagerly await what promises to be an exciting season, with Sandhu positioned as a key contender for the championship title.
