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WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025: Everything You Should Be Aware Of

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The highly anticipated fifth edition of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally since its reintroduction to the WRC schedule has finally arrived. Known as the “World’s Toughest Rally,” the challenging event begins on Thursday, March 20, and will continue until Sunday, March 23, concluding with the declaration of a winner.

This year’s rally will be bigger and better, with the organizers announcing that it will be the longest since its return to the WRC calendar in 2021. With a 384. 86 km long route, it introduces new stages such as Mzabibu.

A defining characteristic of the Safari Rally is its tough terrain, which tests drivers to maneuver through rocky paths, sandy trails, and water crossings, all while withstanding extreme heat. The variable weather contributes to the difficulty, with heavy rainfall frequently impairing visibility and creating slick conditions.

What genuinely distinguishes the Safari Rally is its unique Kenyan essence. It is a unique adventure because of the breathtaking wildlife experiences, which include zebras, giraffes, and elephants. Moreover, the rally has a profound historical heritage, establishing it as a beloved occasion for motorsport fans.

The Safari Rally will host other classes, such as WRC2, a support series with Rally2 cars for manufacturer-supported drivers and privateers hoping to make it to WRC. Other classes are WRC3 (for occasional drivers), Junior WRC (for drivers who are under the age of 29), and WRC Masters Cup (for drivers who are over the age of 50).

The winner of the Safari Rally is determined by who gathers the fastest cumulative time throughout all timed stages. The competitors navigate through a range of special stages, crossing Kenya’s demanding landscape in an effort to achieve the shortest total time.Any infractions, such as false starts, not checking in at checkpoints, or obtaining unapproved technological support, may increase a competitor’s time and impact their final ranking.

The competitor (and co-competitor) with the shortest cumulative time by the conclusion of the rally is declared the champion. Furthermore, the concluding Wolf Power Stage grants bonus points to the five quickest competitors, impacting the overall WRC championship rankings.

The official flag-off ceremony will occur at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on Thursday, March 20, followed by a Super Special Stage in Kasarani measuring 4. 76 km. The day will end with the newly added Mzabibu stage (8. 27 km). Prior to the official commencement, a 5 km shakedown stage is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19.

A combination of local and international competitors is anticipated to participate in the challenging three-day rally. Defending champion Kalle Rovanperä from Toyota Gazoo Racing will contend against leading rivals such as Elfyn Evans (current WRC series leader) and Thierry Neuville (2024 WRC series champion). Kenyan participants, including veteran Carl Tundo, Karan Patel, Jeremiah Wahome, and Hamza Anwar, are also looking to leave their mark. 

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