This archive report was first published on 27 June 2021.
Kenya has secured the hosting rights of the World Rally Championship Safari Rally until 2026, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced on June 27, 2021.
The President made the announcement at the Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute (KWSTI) in Naivasha, Nakuru County, where he presided over the presentation of prizes to winners of the 2021 WRC Safari Rally.
French driver Sebastien Ogier won the grueling three-day event, followed by his Toyota teammate Takamoto Kasutsa of Japan in second place, and Hyundai's Ott Tanak of Estonia in third place.
Onkar Rai navigated by Drew Sturrock was the highest ranked Kenyan driver in position seven, followed by Karan Patel and Carl 'Flash' Tundo in eighth and ninth positions respectively.
President Kenyatta noted that the successful hosting of the 2021 WRC Safari Rally demonstrated Kenya's ability to host global events despite the logistical challenges posed by Covid-19.
He also reminded Kenyans that he had fulfilled his 2013 promise to bring back the WRC Safari Rally after a 19-year absence.
The President congratulated the 2021 Safari Rally participants and encouraged those who didn't succeed to press on for better results in future events.
He also wished quick recovery to those injured during the three-day showpiece and invited them to participate in next year's event.
