The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) is mourning the passing on of veteran rally navigator, journalist and motorsport mentor Abdul Sidi.
In a condolence letter on September 10, 2026, SJAK described Abdul's death as the loss of a “true legend” who left an indelible mark on both Kenyan motorsport and sports journalism.
SJAK president James Waindi explained that Sidi was “not just a rally icon, but also a media guru, a mentor, and a father figure to generations of sports journalists across the country.”
Waindi noted that Sidi spent more than three decades as the authoritative voice of rallying as the Rally Reporter for the Daily Nation, where he mentored numerous journalists who went on to establish themselves in the profession.
“His newsroom was a classroom, his notebook a manual, and his passion for the sport was deeply infectious,” said Waindi, noting that Sidi remained enthusiastic about rallying even in his 70s after witnessing dramatic changes in motorsport technology.
Sidi was also celebrated for his work behind the wheel as a navigator. He called pace notes for some of Kenya’s legendary drivers, including Patrick Njiru, Phineas Kimathi and Sammy Aslam.
“He understood the sport completely from both sides as a fierce competitor and as a master storyteller,” wrote Waindi.
His influence extended beyond journalism and competition through the Abdul Sidi Rally Academy (ASRA), where he trained aspiring drivers and motorsport officials. Among those inspired by his academy were 2WD champion Dennis “Dere” Mwenda and WRC Safari Rally official Hellen “Headgal” Shiri, alongside a generation of competitors who entered the sport around 2012.
Waindi also recalled Sidi’s service as Event Director of the iconic Safari Rally and as National Press Officer, positions from which he championed professionalism and created opportunities for young journalists.
Sidi’s motorsport legacy was part of a wider family tradition. He was the elder brother of Anwar Sidi, the veteran Kenyan motorsport photographer whose career has spanned more than four decades, and Asgar Sidi, who has also contributed to the documentation and promotion of Kenyan motorsport.
The Sidi brothers have been recognised for their collective contribution to Kenyan motorsport. Anwar has been described as a prominent photographer, while Abdul was known as a motorsport writer, rally navigator and administrator.
SJAK said Abdul’s passing represented a profound loss to both professions.
“Kenyan Motorsport has lost a library. Journalism has lost a pillar,” said Waindi.
On behalf of sports journalists across Kenya, Waindi conveyed condolences to the Sidi family, their friends, the Kenya Motor Sports Federation and the wider rally fraternity.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Waindi.
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