Kenyan President Celebrates Successful Conclusion of 2025 WRC Safari Rally
Kenyan President William Ruto praised the successful conclusion of the 2025 WRC Safari Rally, highlighting increased attendance and the event’s contribution to the country’s reputation for hosting international sports. Key winners included Elfyn Evans, Ott Tanak, and Thierry Neuville, with ongoing efforts to extend the rally’s contract beyond 2026. The event featured a record number of stages, reinforcing Kenya’s capabilities in global motorsport.
On March 23, 2025, Kenyan President William Ruto praised the successful conclusion of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally held in Naivasha. During the event’s closing ceremony, he expressed gratitude to attendees from both within and outside Kenya for their contributions to making this rally memorable.
The 2025 edition of the Safari Rally saw an increase in spectators compared to previous years, attracting tens of thousands to the routes and the inaugural Rally Village at Morendat Farm. This change came after the event’s reintroduction to the WRC calendar in 2021.
Attendees traveling to watch the finale at Hell’s Gate National Park experienced significant traffic delays, reflecting the event’s popularity. President Ruto emphasized that this rally, alongside other major events like the African Nations Championship and Africa Cup of Nations, illustrates Kenya’s capacity to host international sporting competitions.
He awarded prizes to the top finishers: British driver Elfyn Evans won the rally, with Ott Tanak of Estonia in second and Belgian champion Thierry Neuville in third. Additionally, Kenyan Carl Tundo was recognized for being the first local finisher, ending in 15th place.
President Ruto noted the resilience and skill displayed by all participants in overcoming challenges within one of the world’s most demanding motorsport events. He announced ongoing negotiations to extend the Safari Rally’s contract beyond 2026, as the current agreement expires next year after an initial extension was granted in 2024.
This year’s Safari Rally featured 21 competitive stages, totaling 384.86 kilometers, making it the longest in the 2025 WRC season, further highlighting Kenya’s capability to host such significant global events.
In conclusion, the 2025 WRC Safari Rally demonstrated Kenya’s ability to host large-scale international sporting events, as evidenced by increased spectator participation and President Ruto’s commitment to supporting future competitions. The success of the rally, along with the recognition of resilient participants, underscores Kenya’s role in the global motorsport arena and the importance of such events in enhancing the nation’s economy.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
