The wait is finally over. The legendary Safari Rally Kenya—widely regarded as the toughest test in the World Rally Championship (WRC)—officially roars into life today, Thursday, March 12, 2026.
As the third leg of the 2026 WRC season, this year’s edition marks a major shift in the rally’s history. For the first time since its return to the global calendar, the ceremonial start has moved away from the urban backdrop of Nairobi, grounding the entire four-day spectacle in the rugged, high-stakes terrain of Naivasha.
This year, drivers are facing a more compact and intense format. With 20 punishing special stages covering approximately 350 kilometers, the 2026 rally demands absolute perfection. Fans can expect a battle of attrition, as teams navigate the notorious “fesh-fesh” sand—infamous for swallowing cars whole—and razor-sharp volcanic rocks that have humbled world champions in the past.
“The Safari is about survival as much as it is about speed,” noted one team official during pre-event testing. With the removal of the Kasarani Super Special, the focus has shifted entirely to the Great Rift Valley, promising a raw, authentic rally experience.
The action began early this morning with the Shakedown at the all-new Nawisa stage, where drivers spent the morning fine-tuning their setups.
The excitement is set to peak later today:
3:00 PM EAT: The official ceremonial flag-off takes place at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) in Naivasha, presided over by Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki.
4:03 PM EAT: The first competitive stage, SS1 Camp Moran 1, kicks off the battle for the lead.
5:21 PM EAT: Drivers will then tackle SS2 Mzabibu 1, closing out the opening day of competitive racing.
Regional Excitement
The event has drawn thousands of motorsport enthusiasts from across East Africa, with many Ugandan fans already settled in Naivasha to witness the drama unfold. Local tourism and hospitality sectors are reporting a full-house, as the “Safari fever” once again takes over the region.
Stay tuned to our platform as we bring you daily updates, stage results, and the latest on the battle for the top spot on the podium.
