All plans are in high gear with the arrival of drivers and their pitstop teams in Naivasha ahead of the 2024 edition of the Safari Rally.
The Safari Rally Kenya marks the third leg of the 2024 World Rally Championships, following the Rallye Monte and Rally Sweden held in January and February respectively. Scheduled from March 28 to 31 in Naivasha, the WRC 2024 promises fans worldwide high-speed action and intense competition.
Anticipation for the rally has soared with a remarkable lineup of 29 entries, featuring top contenders from around the globe. Several foreign drivers have already arrived in Kenya, eager to take on the challenging terrain and vie for glory in one of motorsport’s most esteemed events.
Frenchman Adrien Fourmax of M-Sport Ford expressed his fascination with Kenya’s climate and landscape compared to his native France.
“First I need to get used to the temperature here. It’s very hot, obviously, compared to what we have in France,” Fourmax remarked, adding, “I need to get used to it, and the landscape is completely different. So, yeah, quite a shock now, but a nice experience. It’s quite different from what we have in Europe but it’s always interesting to discover something new.”
Thierry Neuville, the championship leader from the Hyundai Shell Mobis team, conveyed his excitement and readiness for the upcoming challenges.
“We had a good kick-off of the season as we are leading still the championship. Coming here to Kenya now, much earlier in the season, we are looking forward to the race,” Neuville said, noting the anticipated windy conditions and the unique adventure the Safari Rally presents.
Elfyn Evans, known for his composed demeanor, stressed the significance of preparation while maintaining a calm and focused attitude. “Of course, we try and always arrive as prepared as we can. We have to find the balance between being prepared and relaxed so nothing new for us,” he commented.
The Safari Rally Kenya is renowned for its demanding terrain, including mud, rocks, fesh-fesh sand, and challenging water crossings, providing drivers with the ultimate test of endurance.
The WRC affirmed that this year’s edition will uphold its legacy, promising drivers and spectators an unparalleled experience filled with thrills and excitement. Preparations for the event are underway, with organizers and teams working tirelessly to ensure everything is in place, including the Service Park, which has already been erected.
Established in 1973, the World Rally Championship is an international rallying series owned and governed by the FIA, standing as the second oldest of the FIA’s world championships after Formula One.
