President Ruto Flags Off Safari Rally Kenya as Tänak Takes Lead

President Ruto inaugurated Safari Rally Kenya, with Ott Tänak taking an early lead after the second stage. The competition witnessed significant performance from key drivers, while others, including Adrien Fourmaux and Thierry Neuville, faced technical challenges. As action resumes, drivers aim to salvage points amidst demanding stages.

President William Ruto officially commenced the Safari Rally Kenya, flagging off the leading teams at the start ramp in Nairobi, before proceeding to the Kasarani Stadium for a super special stage. A substantial crowd gathered to witness the World Rally Championship (WRC) competitors, later moving to the new Mzabibu stage, located ten kilometers from the base in Naivasha.

Elfyn Evans, the championship leader, initially established a strong pace during the Kasarani stage. However, Ott Tänak responded effectively by dominating the second stage, transitioning from fourth to first position and concluding the day with a lead of 2.4 seconds over Takamoto Katsuta. Grégoire Munster of M-Sport Ford Puma followed closely, just two-tenths of a second behind.

Tänak expressed confidence regarding the competition, noting, “For me, it was all fine. I think the first stage tomorrow will show quite a lot. It’s super tricky, very demanding and long at the same time. I think the whole day will be quite a big show.” Katsuta, who has previously secured podium finishes in Kenya, experienced a setback when he lost control in stage two, impacting his potential lead.

Completing the top five were Katsuta’s GR Yaris Rally1 team-mates, Kalle Rovanperä and Evans, while Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux faced difficulties, failing to progress to stage two due to engine issues post-regroup. Defending champion Thierry Neuville encountered a technical problem, managing only eighth place following a two-wheeled mishap, trailing behind competitors Josh McErlean and Sami Pajari.

Tomorrow’s rallying action resumes with six stages, prominently featuring the 31.40km Camp Moran test, which marks the start of morning and afternoon sessions. Despite a challenging first day, Fourmaux has committed to returning on Friday, aiming to accumulate points. He commented, “It’s the type of rally where we can still score some points, even after retiring on the first day.” He elaborated on his vehicle issues, sharing, “We have an electrical issue, the battery is completely dead.”

The Safari Rally Kenya, launched by President Ruto, demonstrated intense competition with Ott Tänak securing a notable lead after overcoming initial challenges. The rally continues to showcase thrills as teams navigate the treacherous stages, with several drivers, including Adrien Fourmaux, facing setbacks. Nevertheless, Fourmaux and others remain determined to salvage points in upcoming stages. The challenge ahead indicates that the rally’s unpredictability will persist, promising an exhilarating event for participants and fans alike.

Original Source: www.wrc.com