The wait is finally over.
The engines roar to life as Safari Rally Kenya 2026 begins with the traditional shakedown at Training Institute (WRTI) Naivasha, giving teams their first real taste of the unforgiving Kenyan terrain.
For fans, the Nawisa shakedown stage offers the perfect early glimpse of the machines preparing for the legendary Safari challenge. Later, attention shifts to the ceremonial flag-off at WRTI Naivasha — the moment the rally officially comes alive.
But as always with Safari Rally, this is more than just speed.
It is endurance.
Mud, rocks, unpredictable weather, and brutal stages across the Great Rift Valley will once again test the limits of both drivers and machines.
Fourmaux Sets the Early Pace in Shakedown
Shakedown already delivered a strong message.
Adrien Fourmaux hinted at Hyundai’s intentions by setting the fastest time at Nawisa, showing impressive pace on the slippery Kenyan surface.
Close behind was championship leader Elfyn Evans, whose consistency this season has placed him at the top of the World Rally Championship standings with 60 points.
Meanwhile, eight-time world champion Sébastien Ogier delivered a warning ahead of the rally.
According to Ogier, Safari Rally could produce “big gaps” between competitors, highlighting just how punishing the Kenyan terrain can be when the real stages begin.
Toyota Arrives With Momentum
All eyes will be on Toyota Gazoo Racing, the team that has dominated Safari Rally since its return to the championship.
Evans leads the championship charge, while Toyota’s depth remains one of its greatest strengths.
Takamoto Katsuta returns to Kenya with strong confidence after producing impressive performances on these stages in recent years, making him a fan favourite among local supporters.
Young star Oliver Solberg sits second in the championship standings with 47 points, further strengthening
Toyota’s early-season dominance.For many Kenyan fans, the feeling is familiar:
Toyota understands Safari Rally better than anyone.
Hyundai’s Special Kenyan Tribute
But challengers are ready.
Hyundai Motorsport arrives in Kenya with a striking Safari-themed livery featuring elephants and zebras, celebrating the country’s wildlife and rally heritage.
Beyond the visual tribute lies a deeper ambition — breaking Toyota’s grip on Safari Rally.
With drivers like Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak, and the fast-starting Fourmaux, Hyundai hopes Kenya could finally bring the elusive Safari breakthrough.
Ford’s Determined Challenger
At M-Sport Ford, determination is the driving force.
Young Irish driver Jon Armstrong arrives eager to prove himself behind the wheel of the Ford Puma Rally1, determined to cement his place within the M-Sport line-up.
Safari Rally has often been the stage where new talents announce themselves to the world.
Armstrong hopes Kenya becomes that moment.
Strong Kenyan Presence in Rally2
Local pride remains one of Safari Rally’s greatest strengths.
Reigning African champion Karan Patel leads the Kenyan charge in a Škoda Fabia Rally2, carrying the hopes of home fans eager to see a local driver shine on the world stage.
Joining him is multiple Safari Rally winner Carl “Flash” Tundo, piloting a Ford Fiesta Rally2, bringing his vast Safari experience back into the spotlight.
Also capturing attention is the inspiring mother-and-daughter duo Tinashe Gatimu and Caroline Gatimu, representing the growing diversity and passion within Kenyan rallying.
East African drivers arrive well prepared for the championship battle.
Could this be the year Kenyan drivers challenge strongly for WRC2 honours on home soil?
The Safari Is Watching
Safari Rally does not follow predictions.
It punishes mistakes.
It rewards patience.
And it exposes weakness faster than any rally in the championship.
Across the dust, the rocks, the mud, and the unpredictable Kenyan skies, one truth remains unchanged.
Safari Rally does not simply crown winners.
It creates legends.
And as the first competitive kilometres unfold across Naivasha and the Rift Valley,
every driver knows one thing:
The terrain is waiting.
The fans are watching.
And the Safari has begun.
Rally Fanatics 
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