History in Kenya: Katsuta Claims First-Ever WRC Victory

Sunday delivered a moment of pure history in the World Rally Championship.

After surviving one of the most brutal editions of the rally in recent years, Takamoto Katsuta and co-driver Aaron Johnston secured their first-ever WRC victory at Safari Rally Kenya 2026.

It was a sensational drive through the unforgiving Kenyan terrain — a rally defined by rain, rough stages, mechanical drama and relentless pressure.

For Katsuta, the victory was emotional after years of perseverance with Toyota Gazoo Racing.

“I don’t know what to say. We have had so many difficulties and moments. Aaron worked very hard with me, and the team has always believed in me, even when I was failing all the time. Thanks to the whole team. We are finally here because of them and Aaron.”

The result marks a career-defining breakthrough for the Japanese driver, who has steadily built his reputation as one of the most resilient drivers in the championship.

Fourmaux and Pajari Complete the Podium

Behind Katsuta, Adrien Fourmaux delivered an outstanding performance to secure second place, giving Hyundai Motorsport a strong result after a challenging start to the rally.

Meanwhile, rising star Sami Pajari completed the podium in third place, reinforcing Toyota’s depth and the emergence of a new generation of WRC talent.

Redemption After Last Year’s Heartbreak

Katsuta’s victory also carried a powerful sense of redemption.

At the previous Safari Rally, the Toyota driver came agonisingly close to the podium before crashing on the final Wolf Power Stage, losing what had been a remarkable performance.

One year later, the same unforgiving rally delivered the reward.Safari Rally is known for breaking drivers — but for Katsuta, it finally crowned him a winner.

Safari Rally Kenya once again proved why it remains the ultimate endurance test in rallying.

From brutal terrain and unpredictable weather to mechanical heartbreak and career-defining triumphs, the 2026 edition delivered everything that makes this rally legendary.

And this time, the story belongs to Takamoto Katsuta.