Preparations for the 2026 edition of the Safari Rally Kenya, part of the prestigious World Rally Championship, are gathering pace as stakeholders intensify efforts to deliver another thrilling spectacle while nurturing the next generation of rally talent in Kenya.
In a significant boost to the event, CFAO Mobility Kenya has unveiled a sponsorship and development package valued at KSh 48,535,200 aimed at supporting the organisation and long-term growth of the iconic rally.
The investment forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Kenya’s motorsport ecosystem while enhancing the operational capacity of one of the toughest and most celebrated rallies on the global calendar.
With this latest contribution, CFAO Mobility Kenya’s total investment in the Safari Rally now exceeds KSh 153 million over the past six years, underlining the company’s sustained commitment to the growth of motorsport in the region.
The company’s involvement is closely linked to its association with Toyota, a dominant force in rallying through its factory team Toyota Gazoo Racing. Toyota has enjoyed remarkable success in the championship, claiming 12 world titles across different eras of the sport.
Speaking during the official cheque handover ceremony, Managing Director Arvinder Reel emphasized that the company’s support goes beyond sponsoring the annual rally event.
According to Reel, the goal is to play a meaningful role in building sustainable motorsport development structures in Kenya while also supporting the continued success of the Safari Rally on the international stage.
Fans Meet WRC Stars
As anticipation builds for the rally, fans were also treated to a special meet-and-greet session with members of the Toyota Gazoo Racing team.
Among the drivers present was current championship leader Elfyn Evans, who secured victory at the 2025 Safari Rally and recently celebrated another triumph at the Rally Sweden.
Also attending the event was rising Finnish talent Sami Pajari, alongside legendary rally figure Juha Kankkunen, the Deputy Team Principal of Toyota Gazoo Racing and a former Safari Rally winner who famously conquered the event in 1985.
Kenya’s government has also welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to strengthen grassroots motorsport development.
Elijah Mwangi, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Sports, praised CFAO Mobility Kenya for investing in initiatives that will help build the future of rallying in the country.
Mwangi noted that the company’s support includes donating two Toyota Starlets for development programmes, assisting in the creation of a Rally Academy training curriculum, and contributing to plans for Kenya’s first affordable FIA Cross Car, which will be manufactured at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers plant.
“These initiatives are important steps towards developing local motorsport talent and strengthening Kenya’s technical capacity in the sport,” Mwangi said.
Strengthening the Safari Rally Legacy
Widely regarded as one of the most demanding events in global rallying, the Safari Rally continues to attract international attention due to its rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and passionate fan base.
With continued support from corporate partners and government institutions, the 2026 edition is expected to further cement Kenya’s position as a key destination in the global motorsport calendar while inspiring a new generation of rally drivers and engineers.
