President Ruto Launches Safari Rally Kenya, Tänak Takes Early Lead

President Ruto launched the Safari Rally Kenya, with Ott Tänak taking an early lead. Elfyn Evans initially set a fast pace, but Tänak surpassed him in SS2. Adrien Fourmaux and Thierry Neuville faced mechanical challenges, while the rally continues with an ambitious schedule ahead. Fourmaux aims to recover points despite his issues.

President Ruto officially launched the Safari Rally Kenya by flagging off the leading crews in Nairobi, before proceeding to the Kasarani Stadium for a super special stage. Enthusiastic fans gathered in large numbers to witness the thrilling action of the World Rally Championship (WRC), as the event moved to the newly introduced Mzabibu test located ten kilometers from the rally base in Naivasha.

During the opening stages, Elfyn Evans, the championship leader, initially set a fast pace in Kasarani. However, Ott Tänak seized the lead with a strong performance in SS2, overtaking from fourth place to first, finishing the day 2.4 seconds ahead of Takamoto Katsuta, with Grégoire Munster close behind. Tänak remarked on the challenging nature of the rally, stating, “For me, it was all fine. I think the first stage tomorrow will show quite a lot. It’s super tricky, very demanding and long at the same time. I think the whole day will be quite a big show.”

Katsuta, who has previously achieved podium finishes in Kenya, experienced a setback in SS2 when he veered wide and lost valuable time while regaining control. His Toyota teammates, Kalle Rovanperä and Elfyn Evans, rounded out the top five positions. On the other hand, Adrien Fourmaux from Hyundai encountered difficulties and was unable to start SS2 due to engine failure after the regroup.

Thierry Neuville, the defending champion and Fourmaux’s teammate, also faced challenges, struggling with a technical issue that left him in eighth place after an incident. The rally action will continue on Friday morning, commencing with the first of six stages, the notably arduous 31.40km Camp Moran test, which will serve as the opening for both morning and afternoon loops.

Despite his early retirement due to mechanical issues, Adrien Fourmaux expressed determination to continue, stating he would restart on Friday with the aim of securing points. He explained the issues with his vehicle, saying, “We have an electrical issue; the battery is completely dead. We managed to jump-start the car, but after 10 seconds, the car stops and dies. It’s really frustrating, but there’s nothing else we can do.”

The Safari Rally Kenya commenced with President Ruto’s official launch and an exciting display of competitive racing. Ott Tänak emerged as the leader after a strong performance despite challenges faced by other competitors such as Adrien Fourmaux and Thierry Neuville. The rally is set to continue, with hopes for significant skill displays in upcoming stages. Fourmaux remains optimistic about salvaging points despite a difficult start. Overall, the event promises to be a thrilling showcase of rally driving talent.

Original Source: www.wrc.com