Government Urges Safety as 2025 WRC Safari Rally Commences

The 2025 World Rally Championship Safari Rally begins with a focus on safety, enhanced protocols for larger attendance, and government support for female drivers. Organizers warn it may be the most challenging rally in history, with Finnish driver Kalle Rovanperä setting the pace during the shakedown.

The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has called upon Kenyans to prioritize safety while enjoying the upcoming motorsport event, the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally. The third leg of the rally will commence in Nairobi on Thursday, featuring high-speed action in Naivasha from Thursday through Sunday. Mvurya reminded spectators to exercise caution, stating, “We all want to return home in one piece.”

Event organizers have introduced stricter safety measures this year, allowing for increased attendance since the Safari Rally’s return to the WRC calendar in 2021. The event will be officially launched by President William Ruto at City Hall Way in Nairobi, after which the action will transition to Naivasha.

The government is also advocating for the participation of female drivers in motorsport, showcasing an all-female crew consisting of Pauline Shegu and Linet Ayuko, as well as Tinashe Gatimu teamed with her mother as navigator. Mvurya noted, “They are role models inspiring young Kenyan women to embrace motorsport. The government is committed to nurturing talent in the sport.”

WRC Safari Rally Kenya CEO Charles Gacheru has indicated that the 2025 edition of the event may be the most challenging yet. He described the shakedown session as brutal, and remarked, “The competition was tough. This is going to be the most challenging rally ever seen in Kenya.” The demanding 32-kilometer Camp Moran loop is anticipated to distinguish the competitors significantly. Finnish driver Kalle Rovanperä set the fastest time during the shakedown, indicating a fiercely competitive weekend ahead in Naivasha.

In summary, the 2025 WRC Safari Rally emphasizes the importance of safety for spectators and participants alike. Enhanced safety measures and government support for female competitors are notable highlights of this year’s event. The anticipated extreme conditions pose a significant challenge, making this edition potentially the toughest Safari Rally to date, as expressed by WRC officials. The event promises an exhilarating experience, encouraging both caution and participation from the public.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital