WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 Results: Elfyn Evans Triumphs in Africa’s Ultimate Rally Battle

The 2025 Safari Rally Kenya has once again proven why it remains one of the most revered and challenging events on the World Rally Championship calendar. Taking place from March 20th to 23rd, with Naivasha serving as the rally base amid Kenya’s awe‐inspiring yet unforgiving landscapes, this year’s edition delivered heart‐stopping drama, extreme conditions, and unforgettable performances that will echo through the history of rallying.

A Rally Unlike Any Other

Stretching over 21 special stages and more than 1,400 kilometers of mixed terrain—from rugged gravel roads to deep mud and water crossings—the Safari Rally is notorious for its unpredictability. Unlike its tarmac counterparts, this rally demands that drivers, co-drivers, and their machines push beyond limits.

The ever-changing weather, from sudden downpours to searing heat, adds an extra layer of complexity to an already Herculean challenge. Spectators and teams alike marvel at how competitors adapt to wild conditions, where the presence of wildlife—from zebras to elephants—occasionally reminds everyone that nature is as much an adversary as any rival on the course.

The Battle for the Top Step of the Podium: Evans Endures to Clinch a Historic Safari Victory

In a thrilling contest that combined precision, nerve, and relentless pace, Toyota’s Elfyn Evans and his co-driver Scott Martin emerged victorious in the premier WRC category. Clocking in at an impressive 4:20:03.8, Evans’ performance was a masterclass in consistency and strategic brilliance amid chaotic conditions. His win not only extended his championship lead but also reinforced his status as a master of the Safari’s brutal demands.

Not far behind, Hyundai’s Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja secured a hard-fought second place, finishing just 1:09.9 behind the winner. Their pace throughout the event was undeniable, but a mechanical setback—a broken driveshaft—proved too costly, as they lost vital seconds that ultimately cost them the top spot. Third on the podium were Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe, who, despite a series of challenging stages and time penalties, managed to finish 3:32.0 behind Evans.

Evans said “Obviously some guys have had trouble, which is unfortunate, but it’s part of the Safari. It’s a bit frustrating sometimes because you feel like you can take a bit more risk and go a bit faster, but I keep reminding myself where we are.” He further acknowledged that “It’s been a difficult day and we’ve erred on the side of caution”. [Source: Reuters]

A special win 🇰🇪#WRC | #SafariRallyKenya pic.twitter.com/raMlwwry7R

— FIA World Rally Championship (@OfficialWRC) March 23, 2025

The battle didn’t stop there. In fourth place, Sami Pajari and Marko Salminen, representing Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT2, displayed resilience and determination to clock in at 4:27:22.5—a remarkable result on debut in such a demanding environment. Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston rounded out the top five with a time of 4:28:49.5, their charge underscored by relentless stage wins even as they battled punctures and tire issues over the course of the rally.

One of the notable stories of the day was the misfortune of Kalle Rovanperä and his co-driver Jonne Halttunen. The previous two-time Safari Rally winners encountered technical difficulties—a front-left puncture that cost them 55.5 seconds; and they were later forced to retire thanks to an issue with the suspension.

Rovanperä’s misfortune and eventual exit were a dramatic reminder that in the Safari Rally, even the most experienced competitors are vulnerable to the event’s unpredictable hazards. Takamoto Katsuta was not spared either, and was forced to push his car over the finish line after he rolled in the last stages and it refused to start. [Source: AS]

Safari Rally Kenya 2025’s Stages of Challenge and Triumph

Every stage of the Safari Rally brought its own set of trials. The opening super-special at Kasarani set the tone for the weekend, with Evans grabbing an early lead that he would later cement with decisive stage wins across varied conditions. The mid-rally stages, stretching through the rough terrains near Lake Elmenteita and the infamous “Sleeping Warrior” tests, demanded impeccable precision as drivers navigated deep ruts and sudden water crossings.

Saturday’s sessions were particularly grueling—the combination of overnight rain and the abrasive nature of rocky sections tested both driver skill and vehicle durability to their limits.

Stage highlights include the intense duel on the “Hell’s Gate” stages. In one of the most memorable moments, Hyundai chose not to send out Adrien Fourmaux on Saturday, following issues with starting his car; and showcasing how brutal the conditions in Kenya were over the weekend.

On Sunday, however, Formaux came back to clinch the Power Stage win with a blistering time of 5:38.2, showing that even as the overall championship battle is decided by consistency, individual stages can offer moments of pure, adrenaline-fueled brilliance.

As the rally progressed, the elements showed no mercy. Muddy patches, slippery surfaces, and unexpected wildlife crossings forced drivers to continuously adapt their strategies. Despite these challenges, the teams that managed to balance speed with caution reaped the rewards. Evans, in particular, was lauded for his ability to maintain focus and navigate the ever-shifting conditions, often remarking that “nothing is guaranteed on this rally,” a sentiment shared by many competitors.

Class Battles: WRC2 and WRC3 Thrills

While the spotlight shone brightly on the top-tier Rally1 battle, the support categories delivered drama of their own. In the WRC2 class, teams battling in the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 and Škoda Fabia RS showcased the depth of talent present in the championship.

Among the standout performances was that of Jan Solans and co-driver Rodrigo Sanjuan, who, despite fierce competition, finished just 5.8 seconds behind the class leader Gus Greensmith, who clocked 04:34:15.4, in one of the tightest contests of the weekend. Their performance in such unforgiving terrain underlined the high stakes and technical demands of the Safari Rally even at the secondary level.

Legendary Kenyan driver Carl Tundo, and his co-driver Tim Jessop, finished 7th in WRC2 with a time of 05:31:02.0. The duo were driving a Ford Fiesta and managed to finish the rally despite not having power steering.

An Inspirational Safari Rally: Nikhil Sachania Overcomes Disability to Win WRC3

In an inspiring display of determination and skill, Nikhil Sachania and Deep Patel clinched the WRC3 victory at the Safari Rally Kenya 2025 with a remarkable time of 07:04:36.9. Despite facing significant physical challenges, Nikhil, who competes using hand controls, showcased extraordinary talent and resilience behind the wheel.

 

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His achievement not only underscores his personal triumph over adversity but also sets a new benchmark for inclusivity in motorsport—proving that passion and perseverance can drive success, regardless of physical limitations.

Overall WRC Results after Round 3: Toyota WRT Tops Manufacturers as Evans Shoots to the Top of the Drivers’ Championship

After round three, the championship standings are heating up as Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT leads the manufacturers with 158 points, closely followed by Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team at 122 points. M-Sport Ford World Rally Team and Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT2 trail with 43 and 25 points respectively.

In the drivers’ championship, Elfyn Evans boosted his tally by an additional 27 points to reach a formidable 88 points overall. Ott Tänak and Thierry Neuville each secured 23 extra points, bringing their totals to 49 and 52 respectively—with Neuville now holding second place in the drivers’ standings. [Source: WRC]

Watch the Best of WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 highlights below. Courtesy of Dirtfish.

What Makes the Safari Rally So Special?

The Safari Rally is not merely a motorsport event—it is an expedition that bridges the modern era of the WRC with the rugged spirit of classic endurance rallies. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Unpredictable Conditions: Unlike smoother, more predictable circuits, the Safari Rally presents drivers with an ever-changing mix of surfaces. The combination of rocky outcrops, unpredictable mud patches, and sudden water crossings creates an environment where a split-second decision can mean the difference between victory and retirement. The elements are a formidable opponent in their own right.

• Wildlife and Scenic Backdrops: Held in one of the world’s most beautiful regions, the rally is punctuated by close encounters with Kenya’s iconic wildlife. Whether it’s a zebra meandering across the track or an elephant standing majestically in the distance, these moments serve as a poignant reminder that rallying here is as much about embracing nature as it is about speed.

• Historical Legacy: The Safari Rally has a storied history dating back to its early days when legends like Colin McRae battled it out in the unforgiving African terrain. Its return to the WRC calendar in recent years has reinvigorated the championship, combining modern technology with traditional endurance. This blend of heritage and innovation makes the Safari Rally a marquee event on the calendar.

• Physical and Mental Endurance: Drivers must master not only the technical aspects of high-speed racing but also the mental and physical endurance required to perform under extreme conditions. Fatigue, changing weather, and the constant threat of damage add layers of complexity that few other events can match. Every stage is a battle against both nature and the limitations of man and machine.

Voices from the Safari

The challenges of the rally have not gone unnoticed by the competitors. In post-stage interviews, Evans remarked, “It’s been remarkably difficult out there today. Even with a solid lead, you’re never really out of danger in the Safari. The conditions demand respect and force you to drive with a blend of aggression and caution.” His comments echo a sentiment that resonates deeply within the rally community—here, every kilometer is an adventure, every stage a story waiting to be told.

Team principals and support crews also spoke of the event’s legacy. Juha Kankkunen, Toyota’s deputy team principal, noted, “This rally is unlike any other on the calendar. The constant battle against nature, the unpredictable surfaces, and the sheer beauty of the Kenyan landscape make it a unique test for drivers and cars alike. It’s a festival of endurance, strategy, and passion.” [Source: Toyota Gazoo Racing]

Such reflections underscore the profound respect that the rally commands in the world of motorsport.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the 2025 WRC Calendar?

As the dust settles on Naivasha, the implications of this weekend’s results are already rippling through the championship standings. Elfyn Evans’ commanding performance has cemented his status as a leading contender for the title, while Hyundai’s setbacks remind us that even the best-laid plans can be derailed by the merciless African terrain. With the next round set to take place on the tarmac of the Rally Islas Canarias, teams will have the opportunity to recalibrate after the extreme conditions of Kenya.

For fans, the 2025 Safari Rally was a spectacle of unpredictability, resilience, and sheer driving brilliance—a reminder of why rallying continues to capture the imagination of enthusiasts around the world.

Summing Up: WRC Safari Rally Results Breakdown and Highlights

The Safari Rally Kenya 2025 was more than just another event on the WRC calendar. It was an expedition into the heart of Africa’s wild landscapes, a battle against nature’s fiercest elements, and a showcase of the incredible skill and determination of the world’s best rally drivers. From Elfyn Evans’ masterful drive through treacherous terrain to the hard-fought battles in the support classes, every moment of the rally was a testament to the spirit of rallying.

Watch the final day highlights below. Courtesy of FIA World Rally Championship.

As the world turns its eyes toward the next challenge in the Rally Islas Canarias, the memories of the #SafariRallyKenya will remain vivid—a celebration of endurance, adventure, and the relentless pursuit of victory in one of motorsport’s most epic arenas.

This article has been written with the help of A.I. for topic research and formulation.