Famend rally driver Ponsiano Lwakataka, a reputation synonymous with the thrilling world of motorsport in Uganda, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the Federation of Motorsport Uganda (FMU).
For over 25 years, Lwakataka has been a mainstay in Ugandan motorsport, incomes respect for his performances and ability behind the wheel.
Nonetheless, regardless of his decades-long profession, Lwakataka has been vocal about what he feels is unfair therapy and discrimination by the game’s governing physique.
In an emotional interview, Lwakataka voiced his frustrations over his therapy by FMU, which he believes has been discriminatory.
“I’m not pleased with FMU,” he stated.
“For the lengthy interval which I’ve been in Rally, I’m among the many few to by no means have had an occasion sanctioned. After 25 years, I requested them to assist me with securing a superb rally automotive however they’ve saved me in confusion.”
Lwakataka’s rally automotive, a Subaru Impreza N12, is way from the state-of-the-art machines utilized by different high rivals. In line with Lwakataka, his automotive is outdated and poorly suited to fashionable rallying, making it tough to compete on the highest stage.
“The automotive I’m driving could be very dangerous in comparison with these pushed by different drivers. It’s outdated and lengthy for a rally, and different drivers name it ‘Musota’,” he lamented.
The problem for Lwakataka goes past simply the automotive. He feels that FMU has repeatedly denied him the chance to have his occasions sanctioned, leaving him to wrestle with restricted sources.
“Different drivers have had their occasions sanctioned, however mine? They preserve enjoying me off,” Lwakataka stated.
“Perhaps I’m nothing, only a skeleton with out a large relative within the sport, that’s why they discriminate in opposition to me.”
Regardless of these challenges, Lwakataka’s ardour for the game stays robust. He continues to push ahead, decided to make his mark in Ugandan motorsport.
His frustration with FMU appears to stem not from a scarcity of expertise or effort however from what he perceives as systemic favouritism that leaves him at a drawback.
Lwakataka’s sentiments have been shared throughout his speech on the Realstars Sports activities Company Awards, held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Lazio Restaurant in Kololo.
Ponsiano Lwakataka (L) and Co-Driver Paul Musaazi (R) on the awards.
Through the occasion, Lwakataka was awarded the title of Finest Rally Driver of January 2025 after a standout victory within the first occasion of the Nationwide Rally Championship.
Nonetheless, his triumph was tinged with disappointment as he used the platform to make his grievances with FMU public.
Lwakataka’s frustration highlights a broader problem inside Ugandan motorsport, the shortage of assist for a few of the nation’s most proficient and skilled drivers.
Regardless of his lengthy profession and spectacular observe report, Lwakataka feels as if he has been sidelined by the governing physique in favour of extra privileged rivals.
