Preparations in high gear as WRC Safari Rally starts with Shakedown at Loldia in scenic Naivasha
Preparations for the long-awaited third leg of the FIA World Rally Championship, the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, are close to completion, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown over the Easter Weekend.
Scheduled from March 28th to 31st in Naivasha, this iconic rally which is highly regarded as one of the toughest rallies in the world promises to captivate rally fans in the country and around the globe.
The event which marks its 71st staging in the country will be officially flagged-off by President William Ruto at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Thursday before traversing the Rift Valley, spanning several farms, ranches, and conservancies around Lake Naivasha and Lake Elementaita.
Speaking on the preparations for the event, WRC Safari Rally Kenya CEO Charles Gacheru has expressed confidence in the event’s preparations, highlighting the collaborative efforts of stakeholders to ensure a seamless and successful rally.
“The preparations for the Safari Rally are proceeding smoothly, and we are currently at the tail-end, with meticulous attention to detail. Our dedicated teams are working tirelessly to ensure that all aspects of the event have been addressed. From setting up the Service Park, to coordinating logistics and ensuring safety measures are in place, every aspect of the rally’s organization is being carefully managed to meet the highest standards expected of such an event. The Service Park is located at the Kenya Wildlife Research Training Institute, serves as the nerve center of the rally, where teams fine-tune their vehicles and conduct essential maintenance with the help of their dedicated mechanics,” said Gacheru.
One of the key components of the Safari Rally is the scrutineering process, overseen to ensure that every vehicle meets the required safety standards before hitting the challenging terrain. Additionally, medical teams have been put on standby with specialized equipment and personnel to provide immediate assistance if needed.
The rally’s extensive route, spanning iconic locations such as Kedong, Malewa, Soysambu, and Hell’s Gate National Park, presents a formidable challenge to drivers and navigators. Spectator zones have been strategically located along the route to offer fans the opportunity to witness the adrenaline-pumping action up close and cheer on their favorite drivers.
An impressive lineup of 29 entries, featuring top contenders from across the world, is poised to tackle the challenging terrain and vie for glory in one of motorsport’s most revered events. Among the drivers set to compete in the Safari Rally are renowned names such as Thierry Neuville of the Hyundai Shell Mobis team, currently leading the championship standings, and Adrien Fourmax of M-Sport Ford, aiming to score valuable championship points.
Local fans will also have plenty to cheer for, with former Kenyan champions Carl “Flash” Tundo and Karan Patel leading the eight-man charge alongside a spirited contingent of local talent who aim to make their mark on the global stage.
They will be joined by Mitsubishi Evolution X trio of Nikhil Sachania, Andrew Muiruri and Minesh Rathod to Skoda Fabia Evo and Aakif Virani in a Skoda Fabia and Hamza Anwar of the Ford Fiesta Rally 3 marques. Alongside them will be Kenya National Rally leader Samaan Singh Vohra who will tackle the event behind the wheel of a Skoda Fabia Evo navigated by Alfir Khan.
Mr. Gacheru extended an invitation to fans, emphasizing their pivotal role in making the rally a resounding success, “The Safari Rally is not just a motorsport event; it’s an important event that serves to position our country as a top sporting destination. I encourage spectators to join us at various spectator zones, including Soysambu and Kedong, to experience the thrill firsthand and be part of this historic event. We also encourage everyone to cooperate with security and event personnel to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators,” he added.
