By Eddah Waithaka
The 2025 Shell Autocross Championship roared back into action this weekend, delivering heart-stopping racing action at the Autocross Plus circuit. Rajveer Thethy and motorsport legend Ian Duncan stole the spotlight with their standout performances, while 40 crews were celebrated in a vibrant awards ceremony at the Twisty 2 track in Kiambu County.
Vivo Energy Kenya’s Commercial Manager, Mark Senteu, presided over the prize-giving ceremony, applauding the drivers for their exceptional skill and precision on the demanding 5.9 km track.
Organized by the +254 Motorsport Club, the event drew hundreds of spectators who witnessed fierce competition across the Autocross and Autocross Plus categories. “I commend all the competitors for their outstanding performances today,” said Senteu.
“The level of competition highlights the incredible talent within Kenya’s motorsport community. At Vivo Energy Kenya, we take pride in supporting the Shell Autocross Championship and pushing the limits of performance to inspire the next generation of drivers.”
Fostering the Next Generation of Motorsport Talent
Senteu praised the event organizers for their dedication to nurturing young drivers, ensuring the future of Kenyan motorsport remains bright and full of potential. “The commitment to young talent is truly commendable,” he said.
“Seeing legends like Ian Duncan, Eric Bengi, and Baldev Chaggar not only compete but also mentor young drivers is the ultimate definition of youth empowerment. Their contributions will forever be etched in the history of Kenyan motorsport. Watching drivers as young as seven compete with such passion reassures us that the future of motorsport is in safe hands.”
Senteu also acknowledged the pivotal role of former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Ababu Namwamba, whose leadership championed young talent and reshaped the landscape of Kenyan motorsport.
“Ambassador Namwamba’s ‘Talanta Hela’ initiative continues to inspire young Kenyans to harness their abilities. We are grateful for his contributions and remain committed to walking the path of greatness he charted,” Senteu added.
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Fierce Competition Across Categories
Drivers faced dual challenges, tackling both the technical 1.9 km Autocross track and the gruelling 5.9 km Autocross Plus circuit.
– 4WD Turbo Class:
Rajveer Thethy dominated, outpacing Harpreet Singh and Amaan Ganatra in a nail-biting race.
– 2WD-T Buggy Class:
Ian Duncan showcased his trademark precision, clinching victory with a time of 0:20:16.400.
– 4WD Non-Turbo Category:
Abid Ganatra claimed top honours, narrowly defeating Jose Sardinha in a thrilling showdown.
– 2WD Non-Turbo Senior Category:
Altaf Ganatra delivered a commanding performance, finishing 30 seconds ahead of runner-up Jose Sardinha. On the shorter 1.9 km circuit, the competition remained intense.
-Rajveer Thethy continued his winning streak in the 2WD Turbo Class, with Amaan Ganatra and Harpreet Singh Bhogal completing the podium.
– Harpreet Singh Bhogal triumphed in the 2WD-T Buggy Class, pushing Ian Duncan to second place.
– Neel Gohil dominated the Open Class, while Shabaz Anwar thrilled the crowd with a victory in the Quad Bike Category.
– In the 4WD Non-Turbo Class, Jose Sardinha and Abdi Ganatra battled in a “herculean contest” for supremacy.
Future Stars Shine in Junior Categories The championship’s commitment to developing young talent was on full display in the junior divisions:
– Cadet Junior Buggy Class:
Cheche Ababu secured a decisive win ahead of Eann Bengi and Karamveer Rooprai.
– Alpha Junior Class:
Sean Njumbi emerged victorious.
– Beta Junior Class:
Allan Bengi showcased his rising talent with a well-earned triumph.
+254 Motorsport Chairman Sushil Gohil lauded Shell for its unwavering support of motorsport development. “We are witnessing a new era for Kenyan motorsport,” said Gohil.
“Shell believed in this dream from the start and has shown immense passion for the sport. We are confident they will continue to propel motorsport to new heights.”
The championship continues with five more rounds in 2025, culminating in a season finale to crown the champions.
With thrilling races and strong support from sponsors, the future of Kenyan motorsport has never looked brighter.
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