The Safari Rally Kenya, a key event in the 2025 WRC season, features stunning scenery and unique challenges, including high-speed straights and rocky paths. Toyota aims to continue its dominance with Elfyn Evans leading the standings, while competitors like Thierry Neuville prioritize reliability. The new Hankook Dynapro R213 tire will be tested in demanding conditions, as the rally kicks off in Nairobi with 21 special stages planned.
The Safari Rally Kenya marks the third round of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) season, renowned as one of the toughest challenges in the series. Set in the breathtaking Great Rift Valley, this rally features an array of wildlife such as lions and giraffes, enhancing its unique backdrop. Having returned to the WRC calendar in 2021, Toyota arrives at this milestone event after achieving perfect scores in the initial rounds of the season.
The Safari Rally comprises a diverse range of terrains: from high-speed straights exceeding 200kph to treacherous rocky paths that impose severe limitations on speed. With an expanse of 384 competitive kilometers, making it the longest route of the season, participants must be prepared for deep water crossings, necessitating the use of snorkels on their vehicles.
Elfyn Evans holds a 28-point lead in the drivers’ standings, although he has yet to master the complexities of this rally. His teammate Kalle Rovanperä has secured two victories in the past, while Takamoto Katsuta boasts three podium finishes. Rookie Sami Pajari will also participate in the event as part of Toyota’s secondary team.
Evans expressed the unique challenges of the Safari, stating, “The Safari is a unique rally with a special set of conditions to face. It’s not easy even if it’s dry, but when you add the likelihood of rain and standing water, it can be a huge challenge just to get to the end.”
Hankook is set to unveil its Dynapro R213 gravel tire during this rally, which is expected to face some of the harshest conditions on the calendar. Thierry Neuville, currently fourth in standings, along with his Hyundai Motorsport teammates, will be using older-spec i20 N Rally1 cars to enhance reliability. Neuville commented, “We need to have a clever drive. Taking care of the car and staying away from trouble will be key to that.”
M-Sport Ford will field three Puma Rally1 cars, with drivers Grégoire Munster and Josh McErlean, in addition to gentleman driver Jourdan Serderidis. The rally action will commence on Thursday morning in Nairobi and encompass 21 challenging special stages through the regions surrounding Lakes Naivasha and Elmenteita.
The Safari Rally Kenya presents an extreme and challenging environment for the WRC teams as they navigate diverse terrains and weather conditions. Toyota, buoyed by previous successes, aims to maintain its dominance, while competitors like Neuville focus on strategy and reliability. The introduction of new tire technology from Hankook adds further intrigue to the competition, promising an exciting rally experience this season.
Original Source: www.wrc.com
