NAIROBI, Kenya –The dust is settling, the engines are cooling, and the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally is speeding towards the finish line.
President William Ruto is set to preside over the closing ceremony today at Hell’s Gate, Naivasha, bringing the four-day spectacle to a thrilling conclusion.
This year’s event, flagged off in Nairobi on Thursday, featured a grueling 21-stage challenge that pushed drivers and their machines to the limit.
The introduction of the Mzabibu stage added a fresh twist to an already punishing course, reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as the ultimate proving ground for rallying.
All roads lead to Hell(‘s gate) 👹#WRC | #SafariRallyKenya 🇰🇪
The Economic Engine of Naivasha
Beyond the adrenaline rush, the Safari Rally is a goldmine for Kenya’s economy, particularly in Naivasha.
Local businesses, hoteliers, and tourism operators are urging the government to secure an extension beyond the current contract, which expires in 2026.
The WRC has been a major economic driver, with the event attracting over 124 million global spectators and injecting millions into the local economy.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya is confident that Kenya will make a strong case to continue hosting the event.
“Kenya is the rally capital of Africa,” Mvurya stated. “Even though 2026 is coming, we are ready to go on, and as the government, we will pitch a tent to ensure we remain on the WRC calendar.”
The best sport in the world.#WRC #SafariRallyKenya
The Shift to Private Sector Investment
President Ruto took the opportunity to emphasize the shift towards private sector funding, revealing that government expenditure on the rally has significantly dropped—from Ksh2.1 billion in 2023 to Ksh980 million in 2025.
This marks a continued reduction after the 2024 budget was already slashed by Ksh800 million to Ksh1.3 billion.
“Our goal is to ensure that corporate sponsorships take the lead, making the event self-sustaining,” Ruto stated.
He applauded brands that have stepped up, highlighting the immense exposure and advertising value for sponsors.
With continued investment from private entities, the government hopes to minimize, if not eliminate, public spending on the rally altogether.
With the current hosting deal extended until 2026, all eyes are on Kenya’s next move.
The government is eager to secure a longer-term commitment, banking on the country’s unique landscapes and rally-friendly conditions.
As discussions continue, fans and industry stakeholders alike remain hopeful that the Safari Rally will remain a fixture on the WRC calendar for years to come.
