2025 WRC Safari Rally: Drivers Prepare for Kenya’s Toughest Challenge

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally commenced with a shakedown in Naivasha, led by Kalle Rovanperä’s fastest time. Competitors are wary of the extreme conditions that characterize the event. With the rally set to begin formally in Nairobi, drivers emphasize the importance of strategy and endurance in facing the challenging terrain.

The 2025 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally shakedown occurred on March 19 in Naivasha, marking the kickoff for one of the most challenging segments of the global motorsport series. Kalle Rovanperä from Toyota Gazoo Racing recorded the fastest time during the 5.4km Sleeping Warrior stage, surpassing competitors Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak from Hyundai WRT. The official start of the event will be in Nairobi, led by President William Ruto, before shifting to the rugged landscapes of Naivasha.

Competitors are mindful of the harsh conditions characteristic of the Safari Rally, which include treacherous roads, unpredictable weather, and deep fesh fesh (fine dust). Kalle Rovanperä emphasized maintaining the pace and smartly managing the car and tires in order to keep their ‘King of Safari’ title. Furthermore, Thierry Neuville expressed a desire to break Toyota’s winning streak, acknowledging the difficulty while aiming for a strong performance.

Ott Tänak described the rally as demanding but reported no car issues thus far, while Elfyn Evans noted the significant challenges presented by loose rocks and dust, emphasizing the need for caution to finish successfully. Carl Tundo from Ford Fiesta WRC2 shared his experience from the shakedown, advocating for a conservative approach on the first day and expressing hope for beneficial rain on Saturday.

With the shakedown concluded, drivers are preparing for a fierce contest over Kenya’s historic Safari Rally terrain. The event is anticipated to test both the endurance of the drivers and the reliability of their vehicles, underscoring the importance of strategy for achieving victory in this ultimate off-road challenge.

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally is poised to be a formidable test for drivers due to its challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions. Competitors such as Kalle Rovanperä are focused on strategy and vehicle management to retain their titles, while challengers like Thierry Neuville aspire to disrupt the status quo. As the event unfolds, endurance and tactical decisions will play critical roles in determining the outcomes for both drivers and teams.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital