2025 WRC Safari Rally: Urging Safety and Embracing Female Competitors

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally begins in Nairobi, with heightened safety measures and support for female competitors. Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya emphasizes caution for attendees. Organizers warn of extreme challenges in this year’s edition, expected to be the most competitive in Kenya’s history.

The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has emphasized the importance of safety for Kenyans attending the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally. The event kicks off in Nairobi on Thursday, transitioning to the thrilling races in Naivasha from Thursday through Sunday. Mvurya stated, “Remember to be cautious because the rally cars are quite fast, thrilling, and spectacular. We all want to return home in one piece.”

In terms of safety, organizers have introduced enhanced protocols, enabling increased spectator attendance since the Safari Rally’s reintegration into the WRC calendar in 2021. The event will be officially inaugurated by President William Ruto at City Hall Way in Nairobi before festivities commence in Naivasha.

Furthermore, the government has expressed its support for female competitors in motorsport, spotlighting participants such as the all-female crew of Pauline Shegu and Linet Ayuko, along with Tinashe Gatimu who will be navigated by her mother. Mvurya remarked, “They are role models inspiring young Kenyan women to embrace motorsport. The government is committed to nurturing talent in the sport.”

The 2025 Safari Rally is expected to be the most challenging to date, according to CEO Charles Gacheru. The initial shakedown session has revealed extreme conditions, suggesting the competition will be relentless. Gacheru asserted, “This is going to be the most challenging rally ever seen in Kenya,” highlighting the difficulty of the terrain. Finnish driver Kalle Rovanperä emerged as the fastest during this session, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive weekend ahead.

The 2025 WRC Safari Rally is anticipated to feature exhilarating motorsport action, beginning with heightened safety measures and an encouraging focus on female participants. With predictions of extreme challenges ahead, this year’s event promises to be historic, exciting, and competitive, as officials and organizers prepare for a thrilling weekend in Naivasha.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital