Kenya is making a strong case for the annual Safari Rally to remain part of the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar beyond 2026. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced on Saturday that the government is committed to securing the event’s long-term future.
The country’s initial five-year deal with the WRC Promoter concludes this year, but an extension was already secured until 2026. Speaking at the Mixed Zone in Naivasha during Day 3 of the 2025 WRC Safari Rally, Mvurya reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to keeping the iconic race on the global motorsport circuit.
“Kenya is Africa’s rally capital, and even as we approach 2026, we are fully prepared to continue hosting this event. The government, alongside key stakeholders, will work tirelessly to ensure the Safari Rally remains on the WRC calendar,” he stated.
Mvurya highlighted Kenya’s distinct appeal as a motorsport destination, citing its diverse landscapes and unique rally conditions. “There is no other place in Africa that offers this incredible mix of scenery and rallying excitement,” he noted.
To sustain the event, Mvurya stressed the need for increased private sector participation. “We are keen on bringing more private sector players on board to ensure long-term sustainability,” he said.
He also revealed plans to integrate motorsport training into the country’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. “As directed by President William Ruto, we will invest in motorsport development to nurture talent at various training centers,” he stated.
Mvurya confirmed that President Ruto would attend Sunday’s award ceremony at Hell’s Gate to celebrate the rally’s conclusion.
Reflecting on the ongoing event, the CS lauded the 2025 Safari Rally for attracting record-breaking crowds since its WRC return in 2021. “We are witnessing an incredible turnout from both local and international fans,” he observed.
Discussing this year’s race conditions, he remarked, “The rally has been intense, with sections experiencing wet and dry conditions, creating a thrilling challenge for drivers.”
During his visit, Mvurya also interacted with some of the WRC’s top drivers, including championship leader Elfyn Evans, reigning world champion Thierry Neuville, two-time champion Kalle Rovanperä, 2019 champion Ott Tänak, Japanese driver Takamoto Katsuta, and rising star Sami Pajari.
As Kenya pushes for an extended WRC deal, the government remains optimistic about the future of the Safari Rally, aiming to keep it as a marquee event on the global motorsport calendar.