Kenyans Urged to Prioritize Safety as 2025 WRC Safari Rally Begins

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally starts in Nairobi, focusing on safety and support for female drivers. Enhanced safety protocols allow for more spectators. This year’s edition could be the most difficult in history, with competitive conditions and significant challenges for drivers.

The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has called on Kenyans to prioritize safety while enjoying the exciting motorsport event. The third leg of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally begins in Nairobi on Thursday, with action scheduled in Naivasha from Thursday to Sunday. Mvurya emphasized the need for caution, stating, “Remember to be cautious because the rally cars are quite fast, thrilling, and spectacular. We all want to return home in one piece.”

This year, the event has enhanced safety protocols, which permit a larger audience since its reintegration into the WRC in 2021. President William Ruto will officially kick off the event at City Hall Way in Nairobi, before it moves to Naivasha for the races.

Mvurya also emphasized the government’s encouragement of female drivers in motorsport, mentioning the all-female crew of Pauline Shegu and Linet Ayuko, as well as Tinashe Gatimu driving with her mother as navigator. He stated, “They are role models inspiring young Kenyan women to embrace motorsport. The government is committed to nurturing talent in the sport.”

According to WRC Safari Rally Kenya CEO Charles Gacheru, this year’s edition may present the toughest challenge ever, with the shakedown session already indicating extreme conditions. Gacheru remarked, “The competition was tough. This is going to be the most challenging rally ever seen in Kenya.” The challenging 32km Camp Moran loop is expected to be a significant test for the drivers. During the shakedown, Finnish driver Kalle Rovanperä recorded the fastest time, leading ahead of world champion Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak, promising a highly competitive weekend.

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally in Kenya emphasizes safety, especially with increased attendance and enhanced safety measures. Support for female drivers is prioritized, showcasing role models in the sport. This edition is anticipated to be the most challenging in the event’s history, building excitement for participants and spectators alike as it begins in Nairobi and shifts to Naivasha.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital