NAIROBI, Kenya, February 17, 2025 – Two-time world rally champion Kalle Rovanpera and his Welsh counterpart Elfyn Evans are amongst massive names that can be competing at this yr’s Safari Rally.
Making the announcement, WRC Safari Rally CEO Charles Gacheru mentioned the 2 can be a part of a star-studded Toyota Gazoo Racing crew.
“They (Toyota Gazoo) are leading the WRC standings so they are coming to Kenya rather hot…we already have entries from Kalle Rovanpera, Elfyn Evans, Takamoto (Katsuta) from Japan and Sammy also from Finland. There are four cars from the Toyota Gazoo Racing team who are going to be in Kenya for the Safari Rally,” Gacheru mentioned.
The CEO mentioned the entries are a affirmation of the central place that the Safari Rally holds within the WRC calendar of actions.
“Again, Safari Rally…attracting the top drivers in the world. It is the best rally in the world. Best of luck to Toyota at the Safari Rally on that date,” he mentioned.
The five-time producer’s and drivers’ champion at the moment have the WRC standings in a vice grip courtesy of its drivers holding the highest three positions.
Evans, having gained the previous weekend’s Rally of Sweden, leads the standings with 61 factors, 28 greater than second place Sebastien Ogier of France.
Finland’s Rovanpera is lurking in third with 31 factors, two greater than Belgium’s Thierry Neuville of Hyundai.
Rovanpera can be hoping for a repeat of final yr’s version when an ideal drive on the final day earned him his second ever Safari Rally title.
Gacheru was talking on Monday throughout the unveiling of Ksh 33million sponsorship by Toyota by CFAO in the direction of this yr’s version of the competitors.
The sponsorship contains the supply of 1 Toyota GR Hilux Pick-up that can be used as a double zero “00” route opener, in addition to a Hilux Mild Hybrid Pick-up that can be used because the zero “0” automobile, on chosen phases.
The agency can even present skilled driver coaching for 10 of the Safari Rally security caravan drivers, to reinforce their highway security and defensive driving capabilities throughout the rally.
Speaking throughout the ceremony, CFAO Mobility Kenya Managing Director, Arvinder Reel expressed their delight and humility at being a part of an esteemed occasion, such because the Safari Rally.
“We are incredibly proud to mark five years of continuous support for the WRC Safari Rally, a landmark event that showcases Kenya’s motorsport excellence to the world,” Reel mentioned.
Considering that this yr’s version coincides with 100 years of Toyota Gazoo Racing, the MD mentioned they’re encourage to proceed pushing the boundaries and rising motorsports within the nation.
“As we celebrate 100 years of Toyota Gazoo Racing in rallying, our investment reflects Toyota’s unwavering commitment to pushing the limits for better, delivering high-performance vehicles, and supporting the growth of rallying in Kenya,” he mentioned.
This yr’s version is ready for March 20-23 in Nairobi and Naivasha with thrilling adjustments for rivals in addition to the followers.
Unlike earlier editions, the ceremonial flagoff can be staged alongside City Hall to supply spectators with a panoramic view of the proceedings.
Furthermore, this yr’s shakedown is slated for Sleeping Warrior, from the standard Loldia stage whereas two new phases have been created — Camp Moran and Morendat Farm in Naivasha.