The 2025 WRC Safari Rally shakedown was held in Naivasha, with Kalle Rovanperä leading. The competition starts in Nairobi, with an emphasis on tough conditions like fesh fesh and unpredictable weather. Drivers like Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak express readiness. The event underscores the importance of strategy and endurance in this iconic Kenyan rally.
The 2025 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally shakedown was held on March 19th in Naivasha, marking the beginning of this arduous motorsport event. Kalle Rovanperä from Toyota Gazoo Racing clocked the fastest time on the 5.4km Sleeping Warrior stage, outperforming Hyundai WRT drivers Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak. The competition officially kicks off in Nairobi on Thursday, with a flag-off ceremony by President William Ruto before heading to Naivasha’s challenging terrains.
Competitors are mindful of the Safari Rally’s extreme conditions, characterized by treacherous roads, volatile weather, and deep fesh fesh dust. Kalle Rovanperä stated the importance of maintaining pace and managing car performance to uphold the ‘King of Safari’ title. Thierry Neuville expressed his determination to disrupt Toyota’s dominance, while Ott Tänak noted the demanding nature of the rally but remained optimistic about avoiding mechanical issues. Elfyn Evans emphasized the need for caution amidst rocky and dusty conditions. Carl Tundo added that the shakedown was tough and expressed hope for rain to assist Friday’s performance.
With the shakedown concluded, drivers are preparing for a fierce competition on the iconic Safari Rally stages. Endurance and tactical planning will play critical roles as they navigate the challenging Kenyan landscape throughout the event.
The 2025 WRC Safari Rally promises to be a demanding challenge for all participants, with drivers preparing for the rugged conditions that characterize the event. The shakedown results highlight a competitive field, particularly with Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä showcasing formidable speed. Competitors are focused on strategy and endurance to succeed in the tough Kenyan terrain, anticipating both thrilling races and potential weather impacts.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
