Sidi was also a passionate educator. In 2010, he founded the Abdul Sidi Rally Academy (ASRA), offering free and voluntary coaching in motorsport and navigation.
The academy helped train thousands of officials and marshals and more than 60 competitors across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
His grassroots development work eventually earned recognition from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport.
Among those inspired by his academy were 2WD Champion Dennis “Dere” Mwenda and WRC Safari Rally official Hellen “Headgal” Shiri, along with numerous drivers who entered the sport around 2012.
Sidi later rose to become Event Director of the Safari Rally and served as National Press Officer, where he continued advocating for professionalism while creating opportunities for young journalists.
Even after stepping away from active professional navigation, he remained deeply involved in the sport, sharing his knowledge through rallying columns and media advisory groups.
His passing marks the loss of a rare all-rounder who understood rallying from virtually every angle as a competitor, navigator, journalist, administrator, educator, and mentor.
SJAK said Kenyan motorsport had lost a library and journalism had lost a pillar.
Sidi was also part of a family deeply rooted in Kenyan motorsport, being the elder brother of renowned motorsport figures Asgar Sidi and Anwar Sidi.
His influence, however, extends far beyond his family and his own achievements. Through the competitors he trained, journalists he mentored, and officials he developed, Abdul Sidi leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape Kenyan motorsport for generations.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
