The Safari Rally Kenya, set for this weekend, in Naivasha, is the only event on the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar where the cars undergo striking visual and mechanical changes.
According to WRC, these modifications are not just for show but a necessity to withstand Kenya’s racing routes which is considered one of the toughest rallies on the planet.
The country’s brutal terrain and unpredictable weather create a unique test for drivers and machines alike.
The event is set to officially start today (March 20) with a flag-off by President William Ruto before they go for the Super Special Stage in Kasarani.
The cars will then head down to Naivasha in Nakuru County.
Crews will take on 384 competitive kilometres, the longest rally distance of the year, across punishing roads, deep water crossings, and high-speed sections.
These are key enhancements to the cars;
Snorkel
The most noticeable addition is the snorkel, a raised air intake fitted to the cars.
This crucial component helps the engine breathe during deep water crossings, preventing it from ingesting water and stalling which is a frequent challenge due to the country’s unpredictable conditions.
Taller, tougher suspension
Safari Rally demands a higher ride height compared to other events.
The cars’ suspension, WRC said, has been raised to handle relentless undulations, sharp ruts, and large rocks that could end a rally in an instant.
Striking the right balance between ground clearance and stability is key, as the rally is not just about survival but maintaining speed on the fast-flowing sections.
Fine-tuned for high-altitude
Safari Rally Kenya takes place around Naivasha, an area sitting at a high altitude.
The thinner air means engines produce less power, so teams adjust engine maps to compensate.
Every bit of power matters as drivers push their cars across the breathtaking African plains.
This year’s motorsport has attracted 39 drivers from various countries across the world.
The four-day event will be watched by over 85 million people worldwide, with 100,000 fans expected in person in Naivasha.
Car brands
During the race, you will see cars from Toyota, Hyundai and Ford.
WRC says Hyundai motorsport will be determined to break Toyota’s unbeaten run on the Safari since its WRC return in 2021, with Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak, and Adrien Fourmaux spearheading the team’s i20 N Rally1 attack.
M-Sport Ford fields a trio of Puma Rally1 cars, with Grégoire Munster, Josh McErlean, and gentleman driver Jourdan Serderidis taking the wheel.
In WRC2, reigning champion Oliver Solberg headlines the category in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, while Kajetan Kajetanowicz debuts a similar car.
