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Previously, local crews had voiced concerns about the management from the federation and were on the verge of sidelining themselves from the country’s Africa Rally Championship (ARC) round.
The 2023 Zambia International Rally has been set in motion, with local competitors signalling their readiness to race following a grapple with their local federation over the past weeks.
The recent reconciliation between the motorsport governing body ZMSF, and the national competing crews has ensured an even more competitive flavour to the event.
Previously, local crews had voiced concerns about the management from the federation and were on the verge of sidelining themselves from the country’s Africa Rally Championship (ARC) round.
“The Zambia International Rally will proceed as planned for 20th to 22nd October 2023 and all competitors are expected to participate,” ZMSF said in a press statement.
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Reigning African champion Leroy Gomes has been at the forefront of the standoff, and is expected to lead the local charge against regional rivals who stake claim to the title.
"It has been one of the hardest decisions and actions we've had to take... and not being able to give you all a certain answer to the problems we were faced with was even harder," Gomes said.
"We confirm that we will be racing at the Sarago Zambia International Rally next weekend and we welcome our foreign friends onto home soil."
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The Zambian rally stands as the penultimate round of the Africa Rally Championship, with eyes set on the frontrunners for the African title.
The race is between three main competitors including Ugandan crews Yasin Nasser, Jas Mangat and Karan Patel as they battle for the coveted title.
The excitement is not limited to the main event alone. The Junior ARC will witness a gripping competition with Tanzania's Charles Nyerere looking to expand his lead over Kenya's Hamza Anwar.
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Meanwhile, in the ARC2 category, Uganda's Innocent Bwamiki is geared up to earn those vital points to clinch the category.
The rally is expected to kick off on Friday with a 1.56-kilometre qualifying stage, leading to sixteen competitive stages over the weekend, covering a total of 204.23 kilometres.
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