ITANAGAR/GOA : Arunachal Pradesh’s off-road motorsport enthusiasts delivered an impressive performance at the Rainforest Challenge (RFC) India 2026, securing two podium finishes in the country’s toughest 4×4 competition held in Goa.
Team Moca emerged champions in the 4×4 Extreme category, while Team Xtreme Arunachal finished runners-up in the highly competitive 4×4 Stock category, underlining the state’s growing prominence in Indian off-road motorsports.
Representing Team Moca, driver Ujjal Namshum and co-driver Chetthan Chengappa claimed the championship title after displaying exceptional driving skills, tactical precision and teamwork throughout the week-long competition.
Team Xtreme Arunachal, represented by driver Naku Hage Chada and co-driver Loda Punyo, secured second place in the premier 4×4 Stock category, which featured challenging hill climbs, deep mud pits, water crossings, technical recovery sections and endurance-based obstacle courses.
The double podium finish marks a significant achievement for Arunachal Pradesh and reflects the Northeast’s growing presence in one of the country’s most demanding motorsport disciplines.
Speaking to The Arunachal Age, Team Xtreme Arunachal group leader Jaong Mirip Singpho described the achievement as a proud moment for the state.
“Representing Arunachal Pradesh at a prestigious national event like the Rainforest Challenge is itself a matter of immense pride. Winning a podium finish has made the experience even more memorable,” he said.
Singpho said the team travelled from Itanagar to Goa with the sole aim of giving its best performance.
“Our driver Naku Hage Chada and co-driver Loda Punyo gave their absolute best to secure the top position. Although we narrowly missed the championship, we are satisfied with our performance and determined to return stronger in the next edition,” he added.
Describing RFC India as the toughest motorsport event the team has participated in, Singpho said every stage tested both the vehicles and competitors to their limits.
“The experience has been incredibly valuable, giving us greater confidence and preparedness for future competitions,” he said.
Organised by Cougar Motorsport, the 12th edition of RFC India was held in Goa from July 26 to August 1. Recognised as India’s toughest off-road motorsport competition and among the world’s top off-road challenges, the event featured multiple categories, including 4×4 Extreme, 4×4 Modified and 4×4 Stock, with competitors tested on precision driving, vehicle recovery, navigation, endurance and teamwork under extreme terrain conditions.
