As the world gears up for the Safari Rally, Kenya's local motorsport scene is facing an uncertain future. The rally, which returns to the global circuit after a 19-year hiatus, has attracted a rich international entry, including nine-time world champion Sebastien Loeb and reigning world champion Sebastien Ogier.
However, the local Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) is struggling to stay relevant, with less than 10 cars competing in the recent KNRC Eldoret Rally. This is a worrying trend that needs to be addressed by the sport's stakeholders, who may be focusing too much on the World Rally Championship (WRC) at the expense of the local circuit.
The Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) needs to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to save local motorsport. This could include relaxing homologation rules to allow new drivers to compete, such as the Probox drivers, and revamping the Clubman Rally circuit to offer a fresh and exciting experience.
Hotels in Naivasha are capitalizing on the Safari Rally frenzy by charging exorbitant accommodation rates, which is not conducive to the long-term existence of the event. The authorities need to create a more favorable ecosystem for the WRC Safari Rally, including formulating incentives to attract media and spectators.
With the Safari Rally CEO Phineas Kimathi also serving as KMSF President, there is a clear need for action to save local motorsport. The future of the sport in Kenya hangs in the balance, and it is up to the stakeholders to take decisive action to ensure its survival.
