Elfyn Evans Secures Landmark Victory at 2025 Safari Rally Kenya

Elfyn Evans claimed his first back-to-back victory at the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, extending his championship lead in the FIA WRC. He finished ahead of Ott Tänak and Thierry Neuville, securing Hyundai’s first-ever double podium in Africa. Despite challenges, Evans showcased strong performance, while Toyota’s advantage in the manufacturers’ standings was cut down following the rally.

Elfyn Evans achieved a significant milestone by securing victory at the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, marking his first back-to-back wins in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The Welsh driver showcased his skills on demanding terrain, finishing ahead of Estonia’s Ott Tänak by 1 minute and 9.9 seconds. Belgian champion Thierry Neuville followed in third place, achieving Hyundai’s first double podium finish in Africa.

Following the rally, Evans extended his championship lead to 36 points over Neuville, despite both Neuville and Tänak earning extra points on Super Sunday and Power Stage events. Tänak remains another three points behind Neuville, while two-time champion Kalle Rovanperä trails by 57 points after an electrical failure forced him to retire on Sunday.

In the manufacturers’ standings, Toyota’s lead over Hyundai decreased to 26 points after Hyundai scored 22 points more in Kenya. Evans faced minimal disruptions during the rally, encountering only a 360-degree spin and an intercom failure on Friday, which he managed effectively to hold his lead.

Evans expressed gratitude for the support he received in Kenya, stating, “I want to say thank you to everyone in Kenya for a very warm welcome and an amazing rally.” He praised his team for their efforts, remarking on the significance of Toyota’s history at this rally. In contrast, Tänak, who led initially, faced a driveshaft issue but capitalized on Rovanperä’s misfortunes to finish second.

Neuville’s rally began under challenging conditions, as he incurred multiple penalties due to late repairs and a health issue on Friday, which affected his performance. Nevertheless, he managed to recover and secure third place, earning crucial championship points.

Japan’s Takamoto Katsuta appeared poised to finish fourth but encountered difficulties on the final stage, causing his Toyota to roll over while he aimed for Power Stage bonus points. Although spectators helped return his car upright, the damage compelled him to retire. An upset Katsuta commented, “I don’t know what happened; just sorry for the team, nothing else.”

M-Sport Ford’s Grégoire Munster rounded out a notable performance with a fifth-place finish despite experiencing gearbox issues requiring a rapid fix. As the season progresses, Evans’ victory in Kenya strengthens his championship position while intensifying the competition between Toyota and Hyundai. Upcoming rallies are expected to deliver more thrilling encounters as the championship race advances.

Elfyn Evans’ victory at the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya reinforces his status as the championship leader, while highlighting the fierce competition between Toyota and Hyundai. Despite challenges faced by competitors like Neuville and Katsuta, Evans’ ability to navigate obstacles effectively set him apart. The decreasing lead for Toyota over Hyundai in the manufacturers’ standings signals a compelling season ahead, suggesting more high-stakes action in future rallies.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital