Preview of the Safari Rally Kenya: A Milestone for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

The Safari Rally in Kenya is set for March 20-23, marking TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s 100th event in the FIA World Rally Championship. Elfyn Evans leads the drivers’ standings, supported by strong team members including Kalle Rovanperä and Takamoto Katsuta. The rally features new stages and expanded routes, while challenges such as unpredictable weather and terrain add complexity. The GR Yaris Rally2 will also debut in Africa, showcasing upcoming talent in the WRC2 category.

The Safari Rally in Kenya is set to be a significant event for the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team as they aim to defend their unbeaten record during their 100th participation in the FIA World Rally Championship from March 20 to 23. This milestone follows a commendable start to the season, marked by a one-two finish and maximum points in the initial rallies at Monte Carlo and Sweden, demonstrating a robust beginning for the manufacturer in the modern WRC era.

Leading the drivers’ standings is Elfyn Evans, who secured a notable victory in Sweden. He will be joined by team-mate Takamoto Katsuta, who has previously excelled in Kenya with three podium finishes. Kalle Rovanperä, a formidable contender with wins from the last two years, will also be competing, whereas Sami Pajari will be experiencing the rally’s challenges for the first time in his TGR-WRT2 entry.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has a remarkable history in the Safari Rally, boasting wins in all four editions since its return in 2021. This year commemorates the 40th anniversary of Juha Kankkunen’s first WRC win at this event, where he now assumes the role of Deputy Team Principal, bringing valuable expertise.

The Safari Rally poses distinctive challenges with its combination of rough, rocky sections and soft sand, which can complicate navigation. Rain can transform dry tracks into muddy terrains, prompting teams to utilize snorkels to keep engines functioning properly despite challenging conditions.

This year, the rally’s distance has expanded to 384.86 kilometers, the longest in recent years. The event will commence from Nairobi, with a super special stage in Kasarani. New stages include Mzabibu and Camp Moran, which has the longest stretch at 32.2 km, while crews will also explore northward to Lake Elmenteita over the weekend, culminating in Hell’s Gate for the Power Stage.

The GR Yaris Rally2 will make its debut in Africa, featuring four customer entries among the top six in the WRC2 category. Leading the championship is Oliver Solberg, who will be challenged by experienced competitors like Jan Solans, Diego Domínguez, and Kajetan Kajetanowicz, each eager to showcase their skills on this diverse rally terrain.

The Safari Rally in Kenya promises to be a landmark event for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, marking its 100th rally in the FIA World Rally Championship. With a blend of experienced drivers and the latest competition vehicles, the team aims to uphold its winning record in this uniquely challenging environment. As competitors navigate the unpredictable conditions, the event will serve as a pivotal moment in the 2024 season, showcasing both strategy and resilience.

Original Source: newsroom.toyota.eu