Safari Rally Kenya 2025 Preview: The most extreme event of the World Championship

The Safari Rally Kenya, the third round of the 2025 World Rally Championship to be held from March 20 to 23, represents a unique challenge in the calendar. It is the only competition where cars undergo visible transformations, adapting to the relentless nature of the African continent.

Technical modifications to survive the African terrain

Teams implement substantial changes to their vehicles to tackle the 384 competitive kilometers that make up the longest test of the year. The most distinctive element is the snorkel, a vital component that allows engines to "breathe" during deep water crossings.

The raised suspension is another fundamental adaptation, providing greater height to navigate constant undulations and rocks that punish the chassis. However, this modification is not just about survival; it must also maintain stability at high speeds, a determining factor between success and disaster.

The engine maps receive specific adjustments to compensate for the altitude conditions in Naivasha, where the thinner air reduces available power as competitors traverse the vast African plains.

A demanding route through 21 timed stages

The itinerary of the Safari Rally Kenya 2025 includes 21 special stages strategically distributed over four days of competition:

• The action begins at the Kasarani Stadium with a spectacular stage of 4.76 kilometers where two cars race simultaneously, setting the initial tone in front of thousands of spectators.
• Among the novelties is Mzabibu, a technical stage of 8.15 kilometers created in the vineyards of the Morendat farm, designed with fans in mind, offering excellent viewing points.
• Camp Moran is introduced as a classic stage of 32.20 kilometers that combines technical tracks, fast descents, and jumps along the cliffs of the Great Rift Valley.
• The Hell's Gate stage, with its 10.53 kilometers, will serve as the Power Stage and features a modification for 2025: cars will turn right near the Fischer Tower instead of left, adding a new dynamic to the final stage.

Extreme conditions and unpredictable factors

The changing weather, capable of transforming in minutes, adds another layer of difficulty. Drivers will face mud, rocks, fesh-fesh sand, and water crossings that make this test the ultimate endurance challenge.

Local wildlife also plays an important role, with possible sightings of elephants, giraffes, and zebras that give the rally its unique character.

Participants and favorites

The entry list includes 39 crews led by the top WRC teams. Elfyn Evans, Kalle Rovanperä, Thierry Neuville, and Ott Tänak lead the aspirations for Toyota and Hyundai, while Josh McErlean and Grégoire Munster represent Ford.

Rovanperä aims for his third Safari victory after wins in 2022 and 2024, while other recent winners like Sébastien Ogier are not on the participant list for this edition.

Official entry list for Safari Rally Kenya

Safari Rally Kenya Winners