WRC 2026: Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston win Kenyan race as Toyota extends dominance
Takamoto Katsuta and his co-driver Aaron Johnston emerged as the winners of the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya, which concluded on March 15, 2026, with the final stage at Hell’s Gate in Naivasha.
The Japanese driver and his Irish co-driver took an early lead on the final day as the rally entered the challenging terrain around Naivasha. Katsuta delivered a brilliant, composed performance on one of the toughest and most demanding events in the WRC calendar, securing his maiden World Rally Championship victory.
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The victory marked a dream ending for the driver after he was forced to retire prematurely in the previous edition in March 2025.
Speaking after the win, Katsuta reserved special praise for his co-driver for his encouraging words during the challenging phases of the race.
“This guy and I had so many moments and difficulties. I wanted to stop at one point, but he supported me and never blamed me when things went wrong. He encouraged me, and that’s why we are here. Thank you to everybody for the support,” he stated.
Johnston added, “To start off how I did and finish on the podium is incredible. Thanks to all in the team for their hard work to ensure we got everything right. To finally make this possible is a dream come true.”
Third place
Third position also went to Toyota, with Sami Pajari and Marko Salminen rounding out the podium.
The eventful final day saw spectators forced to leave their cars behind and walk about 1.8 km from the road diversion to Hell’s Gate’s main entrance as organisers prepared for the crowning moment.
President William Ruto and other government officials were present at the scene. The victory continues Toyota’s dominance on Kenyan soil, following their success in 2025 when Elfyn Evans of Great Britain and co-driver Scott Martin clinched the win.
The rally kicked off on March 12, 2026, with a shakedown at Naivasha, before proceeding to the main stages on Friday and Saturday, and concluding on Sunday.
Following the Kenyan edition, the WRC season now proceeds to the next race scheduled for April 9–12, 2026, in Rijeka, Croatia.
