Hyundai Motorsport Prepares for the Challenges of Safari Rally Kenya

The Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is gearing up for the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, aiming for podium finishes amidst challenging conditions and diverse terrains. The team will use the 2024 Hyundai i20 N Rally1 to optimize reliability. Competition spans over four days, featuring iconic stages, with Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul emphasizing the importance of a strong performance to gain momentum. Each driver discusses specific strategies to handle the event’s demands effectively.

The Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is set to enhance its momentum during the third round of the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship at the Safari Rally Kenya. This event, known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions, presents both stunning scenery and significant risks due to various obstacles such as deep ruts, fesh fesh sand, and pools of water, necessitating crews to maintain a high level of caution throughout the rally.

Adrien Fourmaux aims to replicate last year’s impressive performance, while teammates Ott Tänak and Thierry Neuville will leverage their extensive experience with the Hyundai i20 N Rally1. Tänak previously achieved Hyundai’s only podium at this event in 2021, while Neuville faced unfortunate retirement after leading the rally.

To secure a podium finish, the team will utilize the 2024-spec Hyundai i20 N Rally1, which boasts enhanced reliability and durability. The rally spans over 383.10 kilometers across four days, featuring notable stages including Sleeping Warrior, Soysambu, Hell’s Gate, and the newly longer Camp Moran stage. Competition begins on Thursday afternoon and continues with an extended project on Friday, with a consistent Saturday itinerary and slight modifications on Sunday.

Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul articulated the team’s intention for the event: “Our goal for Safari Rally Kenya is clear and simple: we need to have a strong weekend to build momentum in the championship fight,” amid aiming to tackle the rally’s demanding nature and varying weather conditions.

Crew notes reveal the distinct challenges faced by each driver. Thierry Neuville emphasizes the need for a careful drive to adapt to the changing conditions of the course, while Ott Tänak reflects on the balance between risk and reward in navigating the demanding terrain. Adrien Fourmaux shares insights on endurance, reiterating the importance of both car and tire management, while aiming for a podium finish based on last year’s experience.

The event commences with short stages on Thursday, leading into a marathon Friday featuring eight stages. Saturday maintains a traditional layout with loops covering challenging terrains, culminating in Sunday’s five stages, highlighted by the iconic Hell’s Gate set as the Power Stage for the weekend’s conclusion.

In conclusion, the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is prepared to tackle the challenges of the Safari Rally Kenya, with aspirations for a strong podium finish. Each driver, equipped with an experienced co-driver, seeks to leverage their familiarity with the terrain and the upgraded Hyundai i20 N Rally1 to navigate the demanding conditions. The importance of endurance, strategic driving, and adaptability in rapidly changing weather conditions will be paramount in achieving success at this significant event in the WRC calendar.

Original Source: motorsport.hyundai.com