The biggest motorsport championship is finally here with only nine days away from kickoff.

The World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally has been one of the most highly anticipated motorsport events for Kenyans.

I bet you have already slotted at least three to four leave days to make sure you catch the daredevil drivers in action.

As you make plans for this, so have WRC officials, who are working to ensure that both fans and drivers enjoy the weekend-long event.

The event has always been attracting a huge number of rally enthusiasts from the country, and neighbouring countries including Uganda fans who are known for travelling with huge buses tagged "Tugende Kenya " among other countries.

Ugandan fans at the 2024 WRC Safari Rally which happened on the Easter weekend between March 28- 31, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

This year’s Safari Rally presents several changes, including a new starting point, additional new routes, a reduced total rally competitive distance, and a new venue for the prize-giving ceremony.

One of the most notable changes is the shift to City Hall Way as the official launch venue, replacing the previous location at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Additionally, Clerk of the Course, George Mwangi, notes that this year’s rally introduces unique features that promise to enhance the experience for rally enthusiasts.

New routes have been introduced, including the 32.2 kilometre Camp Moran stage, a virgin stage expected to offer rally lovers something new to look forward to.

At the same time, the 8.3 kilometre Leleshwa stage and this year’s shakedown venue, the 5 kilometre Sleeping Warrior stage, are among the modifications made for the 2025 WRC.

“The Camp Moran stage will perhaps be the most interesting due to its long, narrow, and fast route. This route has never been used before,” says Gacheru, as captured by Nation Media Sports writer Ayumba Ayodi in an article.

Further changes include a new venue for the prize-giving ceremony.

The rally giants will now be awarded at the picturesque Hell’s Gate, moving from the usual Service Park location.

Spectators at Kedong ranch during the 2024 WRC Safari Rally which happened on the Easter weekend between March 28- 31.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

On an advisory note, as you head to this adrenaline-packed event, be cautious and stay attentive to your surroundings.

The 2024 championship saw a viral video make rounds on the internet after a spectator narrowly escaped being hit when a rally car briefly lost control and veered off the road.

Given that last year’s Safari Rally experienced heavy rainfall and that the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a similar prediction for this week, gear up with warm attire to rock during the rally.

The unpredictable weather could transform dry and dusty trails into sticky mud baths.

The Safari Rally was first held in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and was part of the World Rally Championship from 1973 until 2002, before making its return in 2021.

This year’s Rally promises nothing short of a spectacle, covering a total competitive distance of 383.10 kilometres, slightly down from 2024’s 384.86 kilometres.

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Purity Kinuthia