Ahead of the highly anticipated WRC Safari Rally set to kick off this Easter weekend in Naivasha, President William Ruto has reassured rally enthusiasts and participants about the comprehensive security arrangements in place.
Scheduled from Thursday, March 28 to Sunday, March 31, the rally boasts a formidable lineup of 29 drivers, including several international contenders who have already touched down in Kenya to vie for victory in this esteemed motorsport event.
Expressing his warm welcome to the top WRC Safari Rally drivers, President Ruto extended his gratitude to the people of Kenya for hosting this prestigious event in Naivasha, nestled within the Great Rift Valley—an unparalleled and breathtaking locale in Magical Kenya.
Highlighting the significance of Kenya once again hosting the world’s most challenging motor rally competition, President Ruto described the event as a thrilling spectacle that pushes the boundaries of human skill and endurance amidst rugged terrains, showcasing the pinnacle of automotive engineering.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all participants, President Ruto assured every driver and team that relevant government agencies have diligently implemented necessary measures for a secure Safari rally experience.
Among the international drivers who have arrived to conquer the demanding terrain are Adrien Fourmax of M-Sport Ford, Thierry Neuville representing Hyundai Shell Mobis WRT team, and Elfyn Evans, among others, all greeted with a warm “welcome home” and encouragement to embrace the Easter magic of WRC Safari Rally in a video message from President Ruto.
Recalling the triumph of Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais at the 2023 WRC, hosted in Kenya, where their team, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT, clinched the manufacturer’s title, alongside Kajetanowicz and Szczepaniak securing victory in the World Rally Championship-2 category, and Diego Dominguez Jr. and Rogelio Peñate emerging victorious in the World Rally Championship-3 category, President Ruto highlighted the competitive spirit that defines this event.
However, he also noted instances of fair play, such as the disqualification of Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe from the Hyundai Shell Mobis WRT crew for unauthorized reconnaissance of stages, resulting in Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja of the M-Sport Ford team being awarded the victory in the Power Stage.
Anticipating a surge in rally enthusiasts flocking to Naivasha for the event, President Ruto predicted a boost in tourism for the area, benefiting hotels and restaurants in the region.
With preparations for the rally well underway, including the timely erection of the Service Park by last Sunday, excitement mounts as the Safari Rally Kenya marks the third round of the 2024 World Rally Championships, following Rallye Monte and Rally Sweden earlier in the year.
