The Safari Rally Kenya, round three of the 2025 WRC season, is renowned for its challenges and scenic backdrop in the Great Rift Valley. Toyota leads the competition with a century milestone and outstanding performances. Elfyn Evans, although leading, is yet to secure victory in this rally’s unique conditions. With the introduction of new tire technology and strategic decisions from teams, the event promises to test all competitors. The rally starts in Nairobi on Thursday, featuring 21 demanding special stages.
The Safari Rally Kenya is set to commence, presenting a crucial round three of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) season. This rally, recognized as one of the most challenging in the WRC calendar, takes place in the breathtaking Great Rift Valley, where wildlife such as lions, leopards, and giraffes inhabit the area near the racing action.
Toyota celebrates a century of success in the sport, having exhibited notable dominance since the Safari Rally’s return to the calendar in 2021. The Toyota team arrives in Kenya with outstanding performances from the initial rounds, positioning them as strong contenders. However, the 2025 event promises to be a formidable challenge even for the reigning champions.
The rally features extreme conditions, including rapid stretches exceeding 200 kph paired with treacherous ruts and rocky paths that necessitate reduced speeds. Competitors will need snorkels for navigating deep water crossings across the longest competitive stretch of the season at 384 kilometers.
As the rally approaches, Toyota driver Elfyn Evans leads the driver standings by 28 points, despite having yet to secure a victory in this uniquely challenging environment. In contrast, team-mate Kalle Rovanperä has two victories at this rally, while Takamoto Katsuta has consistently reached the podium. Finnish rookie Sami Pajari also participates in the second-string team.
“Elfyn Evans stated, “The Safari is a unique rally with a special set of conditions to face. It’s not easy even if it’s dry, but when you add the likelihood of rain and standing water, it can be a huge challenge just to get to the end. We want to aim as high as possible and challenge for the win if it’s possible.”
Additionally, the Hankook Dynapro R213 tyre will debut in the challenging conditions of the Safari Rally. Defending champion Thierry Neuville, currently ranked fourth, emphasizes the need for strategic driving, prioritizing vehicle reliability by reverting to older-spec vehicles.
“We need to have a clever drive,” Neuville remarked. “Taking care of the car and staying away from trouble will be key to that. Obviously, you need a bit of luck, but hopefully it’s going to work this year.”
M-Sport Ford will field three Puma Rally1 cars driven by Grégoire Munster, Josh McErlean, and gentleman driver Jourdan Serderidis. The rally festivities will commence in Nairobi on Thursday morning, proceeding through 21 demanding special stages surrounding Lakes Naivasha and Elmenteita.
The Safari Rally Kenya promises to be a gripping event within the 2025 WRC season, testing drivers with its unique and challenging conditions. Toyota aims to continue its dominance, while competitors like Thierry Neuville seek reliability amidst the unpredictability of the rally. As the teams prepare to navigate the diverse terrain, the rally’s debut of new tire technology and strategic driving will undoubtedly play a significant role in the outcomes. With the competition heating up, the remarkable scenery and fierce rivalry will make this rally a remarkable spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts.
Original Source: www.wrc.com
