In a significant development for the motorsports community, Maina Muturi has been elected as the new Chairman of the Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF).
The decision was reached during a directors’ meeting held at the Kasarani Stadium on Friday evening.
Muturi, a well-known figure in the motorsports administration, also serves as the Chairman of the East African Motor Sports Club.
He steps into this role succeeding Phineas Kimathi, whose term officially ended in November last year.
Kimathi had temporarily retained the position to oversee the successful organization of the WRC Safari Rally 2023.
Interestingly, Kimathi has opted not to run for re-election; however, he will continue in his role as the Chief Executive Officer of the WRC Safari Rally, which is an integral round of the Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC).
Muturi’s experience extends beyond the national boundaries as he is also a member of the FIA World Rally Championship committee.
Alongside his new role, he will remain the KMSF Director, representing the Rally Sports Club.
Having previously served as the KMSF Chairman back in 2007/08, Muturi’s return to leadership brings with it certain priorities.
One of his primary tasks will be to bolster participation numbers in the local racing circuit.
During his acceptance speech, he expressed enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, “There’s much work ahead, particularly within the KNRC, where our goal is to increase participant engagement. The federation will collaborate to chart new strategies.”
The election also saw the appointment of chairpersons for various motorsports commissions, intended to streamline responsibilities and allow the Chairman to focus on policy matters.
Raju Chaggar has been chosen as the Chairman of the Motorsports Council, while Falgun Bhojak will take up a commissioner role in the Rally Commission.
Further additions to the commissions include Gurvi Bhabra, heading the Hill Climb Commission, and Keith Henry, responsible for the Autocross seat.
Dr. David Karuri will oversee the Safety Committee, with Norris Ongalo representing the 4×4 commission, and Peter Wanday taking charge of the Historical Cars category representation.
As Maina Muturi assumes his new position, the motorsports community anticipates a renewed era under his leadership. With a robust vision for the future, his appointment marks a pivotal moment that could potentially shape the course of motorsports in Kenya and beyond.
