Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, with Principal Secretary Peter Tum, Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones, and rally officials, during a meeting with Nakuru leaders at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute in Naivasha on January 28,2025, in preparation for the 2025 WRC Safari Rally. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]
The 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally is already revving excitement as Kenya prepares to host the iconic motorsport event from March 20 to 23, 2025.
With the Kenyan government and event organizers working hand in hand, all rally faithful can hope for is a world-class spectacle, showcasing the country’s rich sporting culture and tourism potential.
This year’s Safari Rally holds special significance as it will serve as the Kenyan leg of the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) and the Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) opening round. Local and regional drivers are being encouraged to register in large numbers to experience what is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling motorsport events on the planet.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya stressed the government’s dedication to ensuring the rally’s success, highlighting its role in elevating Kenya’s global standing.
“We are adopting an all-government approach to ensure the event projects our best image. We are also working with local leaders to ensure communities benefit,” Mvurya stated.
Organizers have introduced several updates to enhance the experience for participants and fans alike. Charles Gacheru, CEO of WRC Safari Rally Kenya, revealed that the ceremonial start will move from the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) to City Hall, bringing the action closer to the public. Additionally, a new shakedown route at the Sleeping Warrior Stage will be introduced, offering drivers a fresh challenge.
One of the most anticipated changes is the reversal of the Super Special spectator stage at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Last year, this stage was voted the best spectator stage in the WRC series, and organizers are confident it will once again deliver edge-of-the-seat excitement. Following the Presidential flag-off at City Hall Way on March 20, a fleet of 50 cars will head straight to Kasarani, where fans can witness drivers battling it out side by side.
The rally will also feature reversed routes for the Lodia stage on March 20, as well as the Elementaita (17.1km) and Soysambu (29.32km) stages on March 21 in Naivasha. Two new stages, including the Morandat Farm circuit, will further diversify the competition, ensuring a fresh and dynamic challenge for drivers.
As the second stop in the 2025 WRC calendar, following January’s Monte Carlo Rally and February’s Sweden event, the Safari Rally is set to draw global attention. With top drivers, including reigning WRC champion Thierry Neuville, already confirmed for the season, the event is expected to attract a record number of entries.
President William Ruto will officially flag off the rally at KICC on March 20, marking the start of an adrenaline-fueled weekend. From there, drivers will head to Kasarani to tackle the opening Super Special Stage.
