The 2025 Safari Rally kicked off today with the traditional shakedown stage, where drivers fine-tune their cars ahead of the main event. Finnish driver Kalle Rovanpera set the fastest time, signaling his intent to dominate this year’s rally.
Highlights
The shakedown took place at the Sleeping Warrior Special Economic Zone, covering a 5.16 km gravel stretch. Rovanpera, piloting a Toyota GR Yaris Rally1, completed the stage in 4 minutes and 34.5 seconds. He was 1.6 seconds faster than Belgium’s Thierry Neuville, driving a Hyundai i20 N Rally1.
Estonian Ott Tanak, also in a Hyundai, secured the third spot, 1.9 seconds behind Rovanpera. Frenchman Adrien Fourmaux rounded out the top five, with Toyota’s Takamoto Katsuta in fourth, 3.5 seconds off the pace.
Driver Solidarity Amid Controversy
An interesting development unfolded during the shakedown as drivers collectively observed a “pact of silence.” This gesture was in response to a €10,000 fine imposed on French driver Adrien Fourmaux during the previous rally in Sweden for using inappropriate language in an interview. The drivers expressed their disappointment over the lack of communication with the FIA and called for changes to allow greater freedom of expression without fear of severe penalties.
The main rally action begins tomorrow, Thursday, March 20, with the ceremonial start at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi at 11:26 AM. The drivers will then tackle various special stages, including the Super Special Kasarani (4.76 km) and Mzabibu in Morendat Farm, Naivasha(8.15 km).
Fans can anticipate thrilling racing as the Safari Rally unfolds over the weekend, with drivers navigating Kenya’s challenging terrains in pursuit of victory.