Irish Interest in Safari Rally Kenya: A Unique Challenge Awaits

Irish drivers Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy are competing in the Safari Rally Kenya as part of their third World Rally Championship event in 2025. They are supported by a strong M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 team. The rally introduces challenging gravel terrains and is known for its rigorous conditions, including fesh-fesh and water splashes, with a total of 21 stages set for the event.

Irish drivers Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy will participate in the iconic Safari Rally Kenya, marking their third World Rally Championship event of 2025. The duo is part of a three-car M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 team after demonstrating promising performances at Monte-Carlo and Sweden. This rally introduces gravel terrain, offering a distinct challenge compared to previous events this season due to the rugged conditions unique to Kenya.

The Safari Rally Kenya poses significant challenges with its infamous fesh-fesh, treacherous water splashes, and demanding rough terrain. Having previously completed the East African Safari Classic Rally in a Porsche 911, McErlean, aged 25, gained insights into handling the tricky conditions characteristic of this region. “I’ve said it about every rally so far this year, but this event is so unique, it’s hard to fully know what to expect,” McErlean remarked.

McErlean’s approach to his Rally1 debut during the icy stages of Rally Monte-Carlo was conservative, allowing him to secure M-Sport’s first championship points of the year. Following that event, he showcased encouraging speed in Sweden and later celebrated their first overall rally victory in Ireland’s National Rally Championship.

Aaron Johnston, another member of Motorsport Ireland, returns for his fifth Safari Rally Kenya, having achieved two podium finishes alongside Takamoto Katsuta. Johnston enters the event in strong form after a second-place finish in Rally Sweden. The 383-kilometre event begins with a shakedown on Wednesday morning, followed by the first competitive stages on Thursday afternoon. This year’s Safari Rally Kenya is set to be one of the most challenging in the 2025 WRC calendar, featuring a total of 21 stages.

The Safari Rally Kenya poses a unique challenge with diverse and rugged terrains for participants. Irish drivers like McErlean and Treacy, backed by promising prior performances, are set to tackle these difficulties head-on. McErlean’s steady strategies and Johnston’s previous successes enhance the competitive atmosphere, paving the way for a thrilling rally weekend ahead.

Original Source: www.northernsound.ie