The future of Safari Rally Kenya in the World Rally Championship is hanging in the balance, with the iconic African event facing a race against time to secure its place on the 2027 calendar.
According to DirtFish, the main obstacle is the event’s funding model. Kenya’s government has confirmed that it will no longer provide public funding for the Safari Rally from next year, meaning the event must transition to full private-sector support if it is to remain part of the WRC.
The change represents a major challenge for one of the championship’s most iconic events. Safari Rally Kenya returned to the WRC in 2021 after a long absence and quickly established itself as one of the toughest and most distinctive rounds on the calendar.
Kenyan president William Ruto had already confirmed earlier this year that the government’s financial support would end after the 2026 event, with future editions expected to be funded and supported by private-sector partners.
Private funding is now being sought, but time is running out.
The situation has become particularly important because DirtFish understands that the uncertainty surrounding Kenya is currently the only major issue preventing the announcement of the 2027 WRC calendar.
The rally has become one of the championship’s most spectacular events, combining extreme African conditions, rough roads and long stages with the unique atmosphere surrounding the Naivasha-based event. Its loss would represent a significant blow to the WRC’s growing presence in Africa.
For Kenya, the coming weeks will therefore be crucial. The organisers must secure the necessary private backing and demonstrate that the event can operate sustainably without government funding.
For the WRC, the stakes are equally high. Losing Safari Rally Kenya would remove one of the championship’s most distinctive events just as the series continues to expand its global footprint.
Source: DirtFish.com
Photo Credits: Toyota
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