Ruto fails to clarify Kenya’s WRC contract renewal as 2025 safari rally ends

President William Ruto joined thousands of spectators on Sunday, March 23 to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally at Hell’s Gate National Park.

The president presided over the closing ceremony, where top drivers were honoured after four days of intense competition across Naivasha’s rugged landscapes.

This year’s Safari Rally, which began on Thursday in Nairobi, culminated in Naivasha’s picturesque Hell’s Gate, known for its dramatic cliffs and challenging terrain.

Ruto, who flagged off the competition at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium, has been a vocal supporter of Kenya’s participation in the global motorsport calendar.

“I am thrilled today to have witnessed the climax of the spectacularly successful 72nd edition of the WRC Safari Rally right here in the heart of the Rally Capital of Africa, at Hells Gate in Naivasha. As a country, we cannot be more proud of the excellence with which this event has been hosted, demonstrating Kenya’s unrivalled passion for motorsport and global sporting excellence,” Ruto said in his speech after the rally concluded.

“I congratulate all the participants for your outstanding efforts. The number of entries this year was impressive, the competition intense, and the passion unrivalled. To the winners, congratulations on your epic achievement. This year’s rally has tested every part of your capabilities and stretched you to the limit. The terrain has been punishing, with the mercurial weather conditions – ranging from scorching heat to the capricious March rains – making every stretch treacherous,” he added.

As the country nears the end of its extended hosting contract, which expires in 2026, the president’s remarks during the award ceremony were eagerly anticipated.

However, Ruto did not directly address the renewal of the contract to allow Kenya to continue hosting the WRC rallies beyond 2026.

The president nonetheless acknowledged the benefits of the WRC rally to the Kenyan economy and noted that the 2026 edition would be built on the successes of this year’s rally.

“Other than providing a memorable spectacle for fans, the WRC Safari Rally has also had a significant impact on our economy; it has boosted our businesses, created jobs, and generated foreign exchange.

“This rally, along with other major global events such as the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), Africa Cup of Nations (ACFON) and Kenya Open, is ample demonstration that Kenya is more than capable of hosting world-class sporting events. These activities are the fuel that powers the growth of our economy,
and we are committed to continuing to support them,” Ruto said.

“As we look ahead, we invite all of you to join us once again for the 73rd edition of the WRC Safari Rally in 2026. We will continue to build on the successes of this year, creating more opportunities for growth, innovation, and excitement for both participants and spectators,” Ruto stated.

Many Kenyans were hoping for a commitment to securing Kenya’s future as a WRC host nation.

Kenya’s five-year agreement with the WRC promoter officially ended this year, but an extension was negotiated through 2026.

The 2025 edition featured gruelling stages, testing the skill and endurance of drivers while offering spectators an adrenaline-packed spectacle.

The Safari Rally is revered as one of the most punishing events on the WRC circuit, famed for its unpredictable weather and rugged trails.

Fans and stakeholders alike are keen to learn whether further negotiations could keep the iconic race on Kenyan soil beyond that date.

The rally’s return to the WRC calendar in 2021, following a 19-year absence, marked a significant milestone for both Kenya and the global motorsport community.

It remains one of the most anticipated events, drawing over 124 million viewers worldwide and generating significant economic benefits for the region.

However, the influx of rally enthusiasts caused major traffic congestion along the Nakuru-Nairobi Highway on Sunday.

Videos circulating on social media show long lines of vehicles stretching for kilometres as fans travelled from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the high-octane action.

Authorities issued multiple advisories urging motorists to seek alternative routes to ease the gridlock.

Social media buzzed with commentary on the traffic chaos.

As the engines quiet and the dust settles on another chapter of the Safari Rally, Kenya’s motorsport future remains in the spotlight.

For now, fans will look to President Ruto’s address for reassurance that the country’s rally legacy will endure beyond 2026.

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