The WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2026 is set to roar into action from March 12th to 15th in Naivasha, bringing together a star-studded international field alongside a strong contingent of Kenyan drivers. The rally will also serve as the opening round of the Kenya National Rally Championship.
Kenyan Contenders
A total of 18 Kenyan drivers and 14 co-drivers will line up among the 46 crews competing in this year’s edition. Former Kenyan champion Jasmeet Chana, Pauline Sheghu, and Lisa Christoffersen will be among those tackling four high-intensity days across the rugged terrain surrounding Lake Naivasha.
Notable pairings include:
- Karan Patel (Double ARC champion) with co-driver Tauseef Khan in a Skoda Fabia
- Carl Tundo (five-time Safari Rally champion) with co-driver Tim Jessop in a Ford Fiesta
- Samman Singh (current junior ARC champion) in a Skoda Fabia Evo
- Nikhil Sachania, Africa’s only paraplegic rally driver and WRC 3 winner, in a Ford Fiesta Rally 3
- Jeremiah Wahome, Issa Amwar, Aakif Virani, and Ishamael Azeli, all in Skoda Fabias
International Field
The rally’s global appeal is underscored by the participation of top international stars. Defending Safari Rally champion Elfyn Evans, fresh from his Rally Sweden victory, will compete for Toyota Gazoo Racing, alongside eight-time world champion Sébastien Ogier. Other notable entrants include Oliver Solberg (Sweden), Takamoto Katsuta (Japan), and Sami Pajari (Finland).
A Refined Format
For the first time in years, the Safari Rally will skip its traditional Nairobi start, focusing entirely on the Rift Valley landscape. The 2026 edition will feature 20 special stages covering a competitive distance of 350.02 kilometers across four demanding days.
Known for its unforgiving terrain, unpredictable weather, and endurance-testing stages, the Safari Rally remains one of the toughest events in the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar, requiring maximum commitment from the very first kilometer.
Conclusion
With a strong Kenyan presence and a world-class international lineup, the Safari Rally Kenya 2026 promises thrilling competition and global attention. As the third round of the WRC series, it will not only test speed and skill but also showcase Kenya’s unique rallying heritage on the international stage.
