- In 2002, the rally lost its WRC status due to financial shortfalls and safety concerns over its open‑road format. For 19 years, it survived as part of the African Rally Championship (ARC), kept alive by domestic sponsors such as KCB Bank, which invested over KSh 1.2 billion to sustain the event and push for its return.
Sports Principal Secretary (PS) Elijah Mwangi has expressed confidence that Kenya will continue hosting the Safari Rally for another five years. Speaking on March 9, 2026 ahead of the 2026 edition, he has noted that the initial six‑year contract is ending but emphasized that deliberate efforts have positioned Kenya strongly for renewal.
“We are aware that this 2026, the six years is coming to an end. But we have made deliberate effort and we are happy to report that all indications note that we will get another five years of hosting Safari Rally,” he said.
The 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally Kenya is scheduled for March 12–15, 2026 in Naivasha. The event will run entirely in Naivasha, dropping the traditional Nairobi spectator stages to streamline logistics and meet modern safety standards.
The Safari Rally’s roots stretch back to 1953, when it was first staged as the East African Coronation Rally. For decades, it was renowned as the toughest event on the WRC calendar, covering thousands of kilometers across Kenya’s rugged terrain.
In 2002, the rally lost its WRC status due to financial shortfalls and safety concerns over its open‑road format. For 19 years, it survived as part of the African Rally Championship (ARC), kept alive by domestic sponsors such as KCB Bank, which invested over KSh 1.2 billion to sustain the event and push for its return.
The comeback was a multi‑year effort.
In 2013, the government announced a formal plan to rejoin the global motorsport calendar, setting the stage for a comeback.
Four years later, in 2017, the WRC Safari Rally Project was officially gazetted to oversee preparations and ensure compliance with international standards.
By 2019, Kenya’s determination paid off when the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) approved the country’s return after a successful candidate event.
Finally, in 2021, the Safari Rally made its official return, adopting the modern “cloverleaf” format centered in Naivasha to meet safety and broadcasting requirements, marking a new era for the legendary event.
Government and Private Sector Partnership
On February 24, 2026, the Cabinet Secretary (CS)for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Salim Mvurya announced a new strategic partnership with the private sector for the 6th edition of the Safari Rally.
He explained that the arrangement will ease the government’s annual financial burden, allowing resources to be redirected to other sports.
Under the new framework, the private sector will take the lead in coordination and execution, while the government has already settled the promoter’s fee to guarantee smooth preparations.
