President William Ruto confirmed that Kenya would host the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally. The event will take place in Naivasha from March 18 to 21, 2027.
In a statement on Thursday, October 8, 2026, Ruto announced that Kenya would remain on the international rally calendar. He also shared the official 2027 WRC calendar, which listed Kenya as the third round.
Safari Rally stays
“The Safari Rally stays home,” Ruto announced.
“I am delighted to confirm that Kenya will host the WRC Safari Rally in 2027. Once again, the world’s finest drivers will take on our plains, our valleys and the legendary roads of Naivasha,” he added.
The President said the event supported Kenya’s tourism and hospitality sectors. He cited increased business for hotels and other enterprises during the rally.
2027 rally calendar
“The Safari was born on Kenyan soil. It belongs on Kenyan soil. Every edition fills our hotels, energises our businesses and carries the beauty of our country to screens across the world,” Ruto said.
The 2027 WRC calendar featured 15 rounds across five continents. The season will begin in Monaco from January 21 to 24, 2027.
Sweden will host the second round from February 18 to 21. Kenya will follow from March 18 to 21 before the championship moves to Croatia in April.
The calendar also confirmed the return of the United States and the United Kingdom. The United States will host a rally from August 26 to 29. Scotland will host its round from September 30 to October 3.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) approved the calendar through its World Motor Sport Council.
Ruto thanked the Ministry of Sports, the WRC Safari Rally Project and private-sector partners. He also recognised the FIA and WRC Promoter for their roles in securing the event.
“I thank the Ministry of Sports, the WRC Safari Rally Project, our private-sector partners, the FIA and the WRC Promoter for making this possible,” he said.
The Safari Rally returned to the World Rally Championship in 2021 after a 19-year absence.
Ruto ended his announcement with a message to rally fans.
“Tutaonana Naivasha!” he said.