The drivers of the World Rally Championship believe that the *Safari Rally Kenya* should continue to be part of the championship calendar, as work is being done to secure its future beyond 2026. This iconic African event returned to competition in 2021 after a 19-year hiatus, but its current contract will end with the 2026 edition.
To ensure the rally’s continuity, a significant change in its organization is essential. The modern version of the Safari has been hailed as one of the recent success stories of the WRC, presenting a unique challenge for drivers and teams, as well as generating great excitement among fans in the region.
Fans coming from neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda have turned this event into a popular festival, contributing to a significant boost to the Kenyan economy. Drivers highlight the challenge represented by competing in this captivating environment and have expressed their desire for the rally to remain on the calendar.
The president of Kenya, William Ruto, has stated that this is the last edition of the *Safari Rally* where public funds will be used, and has assured that starting next year the event will be fully financed by the private sector. This decision aims to further professionalize the organization of the rally and remove it from government management.
WRC executives have held positive talks with Ruto to secure a new three-year contract, and it is expected that a decision on the future of the *Safari Rally* will be made in the next six to eight weeks. Simon Larkin, Event Director at WRC Promoter, has indicated that they have worked on a business model that involves collaborations with local businesses to ensure the event’s success.
Although the Safari Rally in Kenya faces competition from other events for a spot on the 2027 calendar, such as the Scottish rally and the return of the U.S. rally, the efforts to keep it in the top global rally competition are quite intense.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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