By Priscilla Sarah Nakimbugwe
In the thrilling world of motorsport-street racing, a name roaring onto the scene with speed, style, and substance—Yusuf Ssengendo. Born on March 31, 1999, Yusuf is already making a bold mark, crowned the first-ever champion of the TT Drags and Drift Championship 2024, a rapidly rising event in Uganda’s motorsport landscape.
Yusuf’s love for speed didn’t come out of nowhere. He was born into the passion, as the son of Hajji Kisitu Yusuf, a proud fisherman and an ardent rally addict. Hajji Kisitu’s dedication to motorsport extended beyond his household—he actively supported his friends and rally drivers like Ibrahim Lubega (Pasuwa) and Ponsiano Lwakataka (Mafu Mafu), helping nurture a generation of local racing talent. That same passion shaped Yusuf from an early age.
Mentored and inspired by his father, Yusuf transitioned from a fan to a fierce competitor. Driving a limited-edition Subaru 2000 GC8 Type RA (number 0541 of 1000), modified with modern performance upgrades, he calls his vehicle a “dream come true.” His car isn’t just a machine—it’s a symbol of ambition, teamwork, and faith.
Winning the TT Drags and Drift Championship wasn’t just about speed—it was about belief, both in himself and in Allah. In his interview with Pearl Sports Ug, Yusuf described a pivotal moment during the final drag race last year: his opponent jumped the start, and instinctively, tapped the brake to prevent skidding. But Yusuf never lifted his foot off the gas pedal. “In the blink of an eye, I was the first to cross the line,” he said, crediting divine guidance and team effort for the victory.
Unlike many in the motorsport world, Yusuf chose street racing over traditional rallying. His inspiration came not from dusty circuits but from the silver screen. Films like Fast & Furious, Death Race, and The Transporter sparked his minds-fueled dreams. “Street racing is my vibe,” he explained, honoring the spirit of the late Paul Walker, whose legacy continues to inspire millions of car lovers worldwide.
Although he has announced his retirement from competitive racing this year, Yusuf is far from stepping away. He plans to attend future events as a competitor, mentor and supporter. “I’m here to cheer on my friends, fans and watch how the new generation rises,” he said. His advice to aspiring racers is grounded and powerful: “Believe in yourself, take your time, and learn from experienced drivers.”
His journey hasn’t been without challenges. In October, Yusuf participated in an event in Kenya that presented unexpected technical issues. Despite setbacks, he took it in stride, calling it “part of the game.” This year, he returned to Kenya—not as a racer, but as a fan and student—learning more about car modification from expert tuners and organizers. His goal? To eventually conquer events in Kenya and Tanzania, all while raising the Ugandan flag high.
Yusuf believes that platforms like TT Drags and Drift are opening up motorsport to new audiences and potential investors. “It shows that you can start from street racing and gain experience before moving into rallying,” he said. His vision is bigger than personal glory—he wants Uganda to be a regional motorsport powerhouse, attracting competitors from across East Africa.
And with the TT Drags and Drift Championship gaining momentum, Yusuf’s dream may not be far off. “Expect entertainment, energy, and drivers ready to defend the title,” he promised. “This isn’t just an event. It’s our culture. It’s our disease. TT Drags and Drift—we’re going to smash it!”
Jinja Nyenga 13th- 15th June Second Edition
