Veteran rally navigator Abdul Sidi laid to rest in Lang’ata

Abdul Sidi, a celebrated rally navigator and journalist who had devoted his life to the sport for over four decades, was laid to rest in Lang’ata Muslim Cemetery yesterday. Surrounded by his cherished family and friends, Sidi bid farewell to a career that spanned over forty years within Kenyan motorsport.

Known for his roles as both a co-driver and a journalist, Sidi was revered for his contributions in bridging the generational gap, imparting knowledge, and preserving rallying history. His significant impact was acknowledged by FIA Vice President for Sport – Africa, Rodrigo Rocha, who expressed his condolences, highlighting Sidi's invaluable role in nurturing young talents through his journalism, mentorship, and the Abdul Sidi Rally Academy.

In journalism, Sidi started his career with the Daily Nation in 1985, continuing until 2025 when health issues required him to slow down. This made him one of Kenya's longest-serving motorsport journalists alongside notable figures like Gavin Bennett, Larry Ngala, John Nene, and Aileen Kimutai.

Sidi's prowess on the rally stage was equally commendable. He secured the Group N FIA WRC Safari Rally championship with Patrick Njiru in 1984, driving a Subaru Impreza, and claimed the FIA F2 WRC Safari Rally title with Phineas Kimathi in a Hyundai Coupe in 1999. Over the course of his career, he participated in the WRC Safari Rally 18 times, showcasing his dedication and skill.

His passing has left a void not only in the lives of his family and friends but also within the broader motorsport community in Kenya, Africa, and beyond. The Kenya Motorsport Federation mourned the loss, emphasizing that Sidi's greatest contribution lay in his mentorship. He generously gave his knowledge, guiding, encouraging, and inspiring countless competitors, navigators, officials, and enthusiasts alike.

The federation lamented the loss of Sidi's institutional memory, a crucial bridge connecting generations and a gentleman whose influence on the sport will endure long after his time.

Survived by his younger brothers Asgar Sidi and Anwar Sidi, both prominent figures in motorsport media, Sidi was joined at his farewell in Lang’ata by an array of notable figures including Njiru, Kimathi, Hamza Anwar, George Mwangi, and the legendary Azar Anwar.