By Timothy Albrite
The World Rally Championship (WRC) has officially confirmed that the 2026 edition of Safari Rally Kenya will take place from March 12 to 15, securing Kenya’s position as the third stop on the global rally circuit. The announcement comes as part of the full 2026 WRC calendar, which features 14 rounds across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Recognised as one of the most iconic events in world motorsport, the Safari Rally is famed for its unforgiving terrain, unpredictable weather, and spectacular backdrops across the Rift Valley. Since its return to the WRC calendar in 2021 after an 18-year hiatus, the rally has re-established itself as a firm favourite among both drivers and fans, shining a global spotlight on Kenya’s motorsport landscape.
The 2026 event will be the final one under Kenya’s current agreement with the WRC. Initially reinstated on a five-year contract set to expire in 2025, the Safari Rally received a one-year extension following successful negotiations by the Kenyan government, allowing it to feature in the 2026 calendar.
Efforts are already underway to secure the rally’s future beyond 2026. Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring Kenya retains its place on the WRC calendar in the years to come. The WRC Promoter has also expressed interest in a longer-term arrangement, citing Kenya’s unique terrain, passionate fanbase, and strong organisational capacity.
Beyond its sporting value, the Safari Rally plays a major role in tourism and investment, attracting tens of thousands of spectators from within Kenya and abroad. The event has become a key platform for promoting the country’s scenic landscapes and growing motorsport culture, with Naivasha now firmly established as the heart of rallying in the region.
The 2026 WRC season will kick off in January with the Monte Carlo Rally, followed by Rally Sweden in February. After the Kenyan round in March, the championship will continue through Croatia, Portugal, and other iconic stages, including events in Paraguay, Chile, Japan, and a season finale in Saudi Arabia. The Safari Rally remains the only African round on the calendar, maintaining its status as the continent’s motorsport jewel.
With the dates now confirmed, all eyes are on Kenya to once again deliver a world-class event that brings together speed, scenery, and national pride. For local fans, March 2026 promises yet another thrilling week in Naivasha, as the world’s top drivers return to tackle one of the toughest and most celebrated rallies in the sport.