Nairobi CBD to Host 2025 Safari Rally Flag-Off ,Two New Routes Announced

The 2025 Safari Rally promises to deliver an electrifying experience for motorsport enthusiasts as it introduces two new stages and a fresh flag-off location at Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). The rally, scheduled to take place from Thursday, March 20, to Sunday, March 23, will mark the third round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) and serve as the opening leg of the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) and Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC).

Nairobi CBD Flag-Off for Enhanced Public Access

For the first time, the iconic rally will commence outside City Hall in Nairobi’s CBD, moving away from its traditional start at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The decision aims to provide greater accessibility for fans and foster a more engaging experience.

“We want City Hall Way lined with the public as they watch the cars move out from the flag-off on their way to the spectator stage at Kasarani SSS3,” said Charles Gacheru, CEO of WRC Safari Rally.

After the ceremonial flag-off, fans will have the opportunity to meet drivers and crews at an autograph session at Safari Mall before the rally cars proceed to the new stage at Morendat Farm in Naivasha.

Introducing New Rally Stages for 2025

To keep the Safari Rally fresh and exciting, organizers have unveiled two new stages: Mzabibu and Camp Moran.

1. Mzabibu Stage: Located around a vineyard at Morendat Farm in Naivasha, the 8km stage offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and technical challenges for drivers. The rally cars will tackle this stage on Thursday, with fans invited to a public village at Morendat to enjoy the action.
2. Camp Moran Stage: Debuting on Friday, this stage promises to captivate both drivers and spectators. Situated near one of the world’s carbon capture sites, Camp Moran reflects the Safari Rally’s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.

Revamped Classic Stages and New Features

While new stages add excitement, several classic stages will return with modifications for a fresh experience. Key updates include:

• Kedong Stage: Known for the thrilling Miti Mbili jump, Kedong’s route has been shortened from 30km in 2024 to 17km for 2025. The spectator stage remains, ensuring fans have a front-row seat to the adrenaline-pumping action.
• Saturday’s Delamere Farm Action: Iconic stages such as Soysambu, Elementaita, and Sleeping Warrior will remain unchanged, offering the familiar challenges that drivers and fans love.
• Sunday’s Finale: The rally concludes with an early morning run at Morendat, followed by high-speed action at Hell’s Gate and Oserian, making for a fitting finale to the weekend.

Enhanced Spectator Experience

Recognizing the importance of fan engagement, the organizers have prioritized accessibility and entertainment for spectators. A public village will be set up at Morendat, where fans can watch the rally cars compete twice and interact with drivers during autograph sessions. For moments without live action, large screens will broadcast the rally, ensuring fans don’t miss a second of the excitement.

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A Record-Long WRC Season

The 2025 Safari Rally will be part of the longest WRC season since 2008, featuring 14 events running from January to November. As the third round of the championship, the Safari Rally will play a pivotal role in shaping the early standings and testing drivers’ endurance across Kenya’s rugged terrains.

With an expected field of 50 crews, the Safari Rally promises to be a competitive and high-stakes event. The rally’s dual status as part of the ARC and KNRC further elevates its significance, drawing elite drivers from across the continent and beyond.

Sustainability Initiatives in Focus

In collaboration with Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), the Safari Rally aims to highlight its commitment to sustainability. The Camp Moran stage, situated near an air carbon capture site, serves as a testament to the event’s efforts to promote environmental awareness.

“As we embrace the thrill of motorsport, we are also working with KenGen on sustainability initiatives, ensuring that the rally contributes positively to the environment,” Gacheru explained.

Looking Ahead to an Unforgettable Safari Rally

The 2025 Safari Rally is set to be a spectacle like no other, combining the rich heritage of Kenya’s iconic motorsport event with modern innovations and fan-friendly features. As drivers navigate the challenging terrains of Naivasha, Delamere Farm, and beyond, spectators will be treated to a high-octane display of skill, strategy, and endurance.

For fans, this year’s rally represents a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the Safari Rally continues to be a cornerstone of the WRC calendar and a source of national pride for Kenya.