Safari Rally 2025: A Thrilling Chapter of the FIA World Rally Championship Kicks Off Today

Javan Okwayo EkhalieMarch 20, 2025

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Today, March 20, 2025, marks the start of the highly anticipated Safari Rally 2025, a legendary leg of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). Running through Sunday, March 23, this iconic event brings the world’s top rally drivers to Kenya, showcasing high-octane motorsport against the backdrop of the country’s stunning landscapes. As the third round of the 2025 WRC season, the Safari Rally promises four days of exhilarating competition, significant economic benefits for Kenya, and a global spotlight on the nation’s motorsport heritage.

Time Schedule and Venue

The Safari Rally 2025 unfolds over four action-packed days, with a meticulously planned itinerary that spans Nairobi and Naivasha in Nakuru County. The event kicks off today in the Kenyan capital before moving to the rugged terrains around Naivasha, known for their challenging gravel roads, unpredictable weather, and breathtaking scenery. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:

Thursday, March 20: The rally begins with a ceremonial start and flag-off at City Hall Way, Nairobi, at 11:26 AM EAT. The first competitive action follows at 1:05 PM with the Super Special Stage (SSS 1) at Kasarani Stadium (4.76 km), a dual-lane, spectator-friendly stage. Later, at 3:58 PM, drivers tackle SS2 Naivasha-Mzabibu 1 (8.15 km), a new stage set in the Morendat Farm vineyards near Naivasha.
Friday, March 21: The longest day of the rally features eight stages, including the debut of Camp Moran (32.2 km), the event’s longest test. Other stages like Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong will challenge drivers with their rocky and sandy conditions, repeated in the afternoon.
Saturday, March 22: The rally heads north to Lake Elmenteita for a trio of stages—Sleeping Warrior, Elmenteita, and Soysambu—run twice, offering a mix of fast sections and technical challenges.
Sunday, March 23: The final day includes five stages, culminating in the dramatic Hell’s Gate Power Stage, where bonus championship points are up for grabs. The rally concludes with a ceremonial finish in Naivasha.

Covering 384.86 competitive kilometers across 21 special stages, this year’s route is the longest WRC round in recent history, testing the endurance of both drivers and machines.

Economic and Financial Benefits to Kenya

The Safari Rally is more than just a sporting spectacle—it’s a significant economic driver for Kenya, the only African nation on the WRC circuit. The event attracts thousands of international visitors, including fans, teams, and media, boosting tourism and local businesses. According to posts on X and government statements, the rally injects over KSh 8 billion (approximately $61 million USD) into the Kenyan economy annually. This figure accounts for spending on accommodation, food, transport, and merchandise, as well as job creation in hospitality, logistics, and event management.

In 2025, the economic impact is expected to grow further due to the rally’s expanded route and enhanced spectator experience. The Kenyan government, alongside sponsors, has invested heavily in infrastructure improvements, such as road upgrades and service parks, which leave a lasting legacy for local communities. Additionally, the global broadcast of the rally promotes Kenya as a premier travel destination, potentially generating millions more in tourism revenue throughout the year.

Key Drivers to Watch

The Safari Rally’s unforgiving terrain—featuring mud, rocks, fine sand, and potential rain—demands skill, resilience, and adaptability. Several top drivers are poised to shine:

Elfyn Evans (Toyota Gazoo Racing): Leading the drivers’ championship after wins in Monte Carlo and Sweden, Evans aims to maintain his momentum. Though not historically dominant in Kenya, his consistency and the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1’s proven reliability make him a contender.
Kalle Rovanperä (Toyota Gazoo Racing): The 2022 and 2024 Safari Rally winner, Rovanperä has a strong track record in Kenya. Known for his aggressive yet calculated style, he’ll look to reclaim his spot at the top of the standings.
Takamoto Katsuta (Toyota Gazoo Racing): With three podium finishes in Kenya, Katsuta thrives on these challenging stages. His familiarity with the rally could see him challenge for the win.
Thierry Neuville (Hyundai Motorsport): The championship leader before Sweden, Neuville seeks his first Safari podium. After last year’s disqualification, he’ll be eager to prove his pace on gravel.
Local Talent: Kenyan drivers like Karan Patel, Nikhil Sachania, Tinashe Gatimu, and Evans Kavisi, backed by KCB Bank, will compete against the global stars, aiming to make their mark on home soil.

Toyota Gazoo Racing, unbeaten in Kenya since the rally’s WRC return in 2021, enters as the team to beat, celebrating its 100th WRC event.

Sponsors Fueling the Event

The Safari Rally 2025 is supported by a robust lineup of sponsors, ensuring its success and amplifying its reach. Key partners include:

KCB Bank: Committing KSh 209 million (around $1.6 million USD), KCB supports local drivers and event logistics, reinforcing its five-year partnership with the rally.
Safaricom: The telecom giant has pledged KSh 46.5 million (about $360,000 USD) to power connectivity and live coverage, enhancing the fan experience.
Hankook Tire: As the official WRC tire supplier, Hankook provides high-performance tires tested for Kenya’s harsh conditions, with prominent branding across the event.
Government of Kenya: Through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, the government backs the rally as a flagship tourism and economic initiative.

Additional sponsors, such as Toyota Kenya and local tourism operators, contribute to the event’s operational and promotional efforts.

A Rally Like No Other

As the Safari Rally 2025 roars to life today, it reaffirms its status as one of the WRC’s toughest and most beloved events. From the ceremonial start in Nairobi to the final showdown at Hell’s Gate, fans can expect a blend of raw motorsport thrills and Kenya’s natural splendor. With billions in economic impact, world-class drivers, and steadfast sponsors, this year’s rally is set to leave an indelible mark on the 2025 WRC season—and on Kenya itself. Whether you’re trackside in Naivasha or watching the live stream, the Safari Rally promises an unforgettable ride.