The 2026 WRC Safari Rally was officially flagged off in Naivasha on Thursday in a colorful ceremony that brought together government leaders, global motorsport officials, corporate sponsors and thousands of rally enthusiasts, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated sporting events on the international motorsport calendar.
The ceremonial start of the rally took place at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute grounds in Naivasha, Nakuru County, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki presiding over the event. The rally, which is part of the prestigious FIA World Rally Championship, is expected to draw massive global attention, with organizers projecting that more than 80 million viewers worldwide will follow the action before the event concludes on Sunday.
Speaking during the official ceremony, President of the Kenya Motorsport Federation Maina Muturi welcomed participants and fans to Kenya, describing the Safari Rally as a symbol of the country’s sporting excellence and hospitality.
Muturi revealed that the event had attracted 54 drivers from across the world and would rely on the support of more than 4,000 volunteers working in different capacities to ensure the success of the rally.
“This is where humans, machines and nature meet. The Safari Rally is unique because of the challenge it presents,” Muturi said. “We thank the government, private sector and all partners who have supported this event.”
He also announced a major milestone in youth motorsport development, noting that organizers had successfully developed the country’s first affordable cross car designed for drivers aged between 10 and 13 years. The initiative aims to nurture young motorsport talent in Kenya and across the region.
Muturi compared the initiative to the journey of Kenyan football star Victor Wanyama, who rose from grassroots football to play for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League.
Host Governor Susan Kihika welcomed rally teams, fans and international guests to Nakuru County, describing the event as one of the region’s most important annual sporting and tourism attractions.
“We have been looking forward to this event every year and it keeps growing bigger and more exciting,” she said. “Nakuru offers a beautiful landscape and scenic routes that make the rally experience truly special.”
She encouraged local residents and visitors to come out in large numbers to watch the rally while observing safety guidelines.
Representing the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Vice President for Sport Africa Rodrigo Rocha praised Kenya for successfully hosting one of the most iconic rallies in the world.
He noted that the Safari Rally has a rich legacy, having been one of the founding rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship in 1973.
“Safari Rally Kenya is not only one of the great events in the World Rally Championship but also one of the most remarkable events in global motorsport,” Rocha said.
He added that the rally’s unique terrain, unpredictable weather and rugged roads make it one of the toughest competitions for drivers.
“The rally demands speed, discipline, endurance and respect for the environment,” he said.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya highlighted the government’s efforts to use sports as a platform to promote tourism and economic growth.
He said the rally was being organized in close collaboration with the tourism ministry to showcase Kenya as a top global travel destination under the Magical Kenya campaign.
“We want the world to come to Kenya and experience the unique fusion of people, wildlife, nature and motorsport,” he said.
Deputy President Kindiki commended the organizers and partners for ensuring the success of the rally and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the event.
He disclosed that the government continues to pay nearly Sh400 million annually in promoter fees to ensure Kenya remains part of the global championship series.
“We had about 400,000 spectators last year and this year we are targeting at least 600,000 attendees,” Kindiki said.
He added that the rally had become a major economic driver, attracting thousands of visitors from across East Africa and beyond.
The rally began with leading drivers from the *Toyota Gazoo Racing team, including championship contender Elfyn Evans, navigating the challenging Kenyan terrain in the opening stage.
Other competitors include international and regional drivers as well as Kenyan rally stars led by Karan Patel, who is among the top local drivers aiming to shine on the global stage.
The 74th edition of the Safari Rally features multiple racing categories and stages spread across the rugged landscapes of Naivasha and surrounding areas.
Organizers say the event continues to deliver significant economic benefits to Kenya, particularly in Nakuru County, where hotels, transport services, hospitality businesses and local vendors experience a surge in activity during the rally weekend.
Corporate sponsors including KCB Group have also played a crucial role in supporting the event and expanding opportunities for local rally teams.
As engines roared and the first cars rolled off the starting ramp, excitement filled the air, signaling the start of a thrilling weekend of high-speed competition.
With thousands of spectators lining rally routes and millions watching around the world, Kenya once again takes center stage in global motorsport as the iconic Safari Rally unfolds across the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Rift Valley.
