This archive report was first published on 8 July 2021.
Naivasha, Kenya - July 8, 2021
Kenyan driver Jasmeet Singh Chana has made history by winning the National Category at the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally in Naivasha, Kenya. Chana's impressive performance at the event saw him finish fourth overall and secure the coveted National Category title.
Chana, who was sponsored by KCB Bank for the FIA event, was the fourth-placed Kenyan driver behind Onkar Rai (7th), Karan Patel (8th), and Carl 'Flash' Tundo (9th) in the Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) class.
Sebastien Ogier, a seven-time World Champion, led his Toyota Gazoo Racing teammate Takamoto Katsuta to a dominant 1-2 finish, while Hyundai's Ott Tanak completed the podium.
Chana expressed his gratitude to KCB Bank for their timely support, stating, 'Winning the National Class in a Safari is a dream come true on my very first WRC event as a driver. I have been associated with previous WRC Safari events as a service crew for Toyota Team Europe (TTE). I have also done a number of ARC Safaris; but tackling the event in its present global status in my capacity as a driver is such a great feeling.'
Chana's victory in the National Category was a significant achievement, and he is now seeking sponsorship for the rest of the season. The Kenyan driver is looking forward to the next KNRC event in Eldoret, feeling confident about his chances.
Jeremy Wahome, a young Kenyan driver, also made a notable appearance at the event, winning the Rally 3 Class in 16th overall position. Wahome, who is part of the FIA Rally Star Program, has competed in various open-wheel formulae, including the BRDC British Formula 3 Championship and F3 Asian Championship.
