World Rally Championship: Anticipation Builds for Safari Rally Kenya

The 2025 World Rally Championship shifts focus to the Safari Rally Kenya after Elfyn Evans’ victory in Sweden. Toyota is the current dominant force, with Evans leading the standings. He faces competition from Kalle Rovanpera and Takamoto Katsuta. Hyundai aims to improve its standings under Thierry Neuville, while M-Sport Ford includes less experienced drivers. Local competitors Karan Patel and Carl Tundo hope for success in front of their home audience, with the race accessible on DAZN’s Rally TV.

The 2025 FIA World Rally Championship is set to shift from the icy landscapes of Sweden to the vibrant terrains of Kenya for the Safari Rally this week. Previously, at Rally Sweden, Elfyn Evans triumphed, securing his tenth WRC career victory and matching Richard Burns on the all-time UK winners list. With two races completed, Toyota has emerged as the dominant team in the season, leading into this gravel rally in high temperatures and high stakes.

Elfyn Evans, who currently leads the points standings, will face fierce competition from his Toyota teammates, particularly double world champion Kalle Rovanpera. Rovanpera secured victory in this challenging rally last year, but his recent form has been inconsistent. Meanwhile, Takamoto Katsuta, another teammate, has been performing well and remains poised for his first win after narrowly finishing second in Sweden.

On the other hand, the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team, led by defending champion Thierry Neuville, aims to improve their standing after having a difficult start to the season. Currently, Neuville sits in fourth place, under pressure to break Toyota’s dominance since the event’s return in 2021. The team has decided to utilize an older vehicle, the Hyundai i20 Rally 1, to regain confidence.

M-Sport Ford will feature less experienced drivers Grégoire Munster and Josh McErlean, who aim to build their pace on the challenging Kenyan stages. They have been instructed to focus on finishing the race amidst the rugged terrain. Moreover, the WRC2 feeder series will see competitors like Oliver Solberg and Gus Greensmith, both of whom are seeking points and race victories.

Local drivers Karan Patel and Carl Tundo are also eager to perform in front of their home crowd, each aspiring for a podium finish. Racing enthusiasts can watch the action unfold as the 2025 World Rally Championship is available on DAZN’s dedicated Rally TV channel, providing comprehensive coverage of each race throughout the season.

The upcoming Safari Rally in Kenya promises to be a pivotal event in the 2025 World Rally Championship season. With Elfyn Evans leading the points and facing tough competition from his Toyota teammates, the stakes are high. Hyundai seeks to overcome their challenges, and emerging talents within M-Sport Ford aim to make their mark. The event not only showcases the prowess of established stars but also emphasizes the rising capabilities of new drivers, promising thrilling encounters.

Original Source: www.dazn.com