By Our Reporter
Vivo Energy has announced a sponsorship of UGX250 million towards this year’s annual Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally.
“Globally, Shell V-Power, the premium performance fuel is one of the greatest supporters of motorsport. Shell V-Power has been tested and proven to enhance performance on the race track and has existing partnerships with F1’s Scuderia Ferrari, BMW motorsport and the Moto GP Ducati technical teams. Uganda is no different. Building on the support extended to the sport for the last 10 years, we are pleased to once again provide this sponsorship that will enable the return of the annual rally to the sporting calendar.” Said Johan Grobbelaar, Managing Director, Vivo Energy Uganda.
The Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Rally Uganda is one of the main motorsport events in Uganda. It is part of the National Rally Championship and the FIA African Rally Championship.
While speaking at the sponsorship announcement, Dipu Ruparelia, President of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs Uganda thanked Vivo Energy Uganda, and the Shell V-Power brand, for its continued support towards motoring events, and contribution to the growth of the sport in Uganda.
Ruparelia noted that, “this is our first rally following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic and we look forward to welcoming both the drivers and fans back. We intend to deliver a successful event and preparations are already underway.”
In Uganda, Shell V-Power has a long-standing history of supporting and contributing to the growth of racing through sponsorships of rallying events that include the National Rally Championships and Pearl of Africa Rally. Shell V-Power has also contributed towards nurturing the growth of rallying talent by extending support to drivers, namely Arthur Blick, Ronald Sebuguzi, Omar Mayanja and Umar Kakyama.
“We are aware that there have been concerns over safety following the yellow card issued by the FIA on this rally. Part of our support to this rally will go towards enhancing safety at the rally. At Vivo Energy Uganda, safety is our key priority and an integral part of our business. We will do whatever is within our means to support FMU to enhance the safety protocols at the rally,” Grobbelaar added.
The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally is slated for 6th to 8th May.