The Safari Rally has secured its spot on the 2027 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar, ending months of uncertainty for local rally enthusiasts. The event will take place from March 18-21, 2027, marking another chapter in its long association with the WRC. This development comes after a frantic push by the government, Motorsport Kenya Federation, and the WRC Safari Rally team to ensure the iconic event retained its place on the global stage.
The Safari Rally's place on the 2027 calendar had been uncertain after the six-year contract signed in 2021 expired this year. President William Ruto had declared that the 2026 edition would be the last to receive government support, raising questions about the event's future. However, Ruto called on the private sector to support future editions, and the government's efforts have paid off with Kenya's slot confirmed on the 2027 calendar.
President William Ruto expressed his delight at confirming that Kenya will host the WRC Safari Rally in 2027. He highlighted the event's importance, stating that the Safari Rally "stays home" and "belongs on Kenyan soil." Ruto also emphasized the event's immense economic impact on the country, filling hotels, energizing businesses, and showcasing Kenya's beauty to a global audience.
The 2027 FIA World Rally Championship calendar features 15 rounds, one more than the 14 originally scheduled for 2026. The season will start in Monaco from January 21-24 and conclude in Saudi Arabia from November 25-28. The Safari Rally will be the third round of the championship, following events in Monaco and Sweden.
Éric Boullier, CEO of WRC Promoter, described the 2027 calendar as the beginning of a new chapter for the championship. He highlighted the opportunities created by returning to the United States and United Kingdom, as well as introducing new technical regulations to shape the future of the WRC.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed Boullier's sentiments, describing the 2027 calendar as a reflection of the strong momentum behind the championship. He emphasized the introduction of new events in the United Kingdom and Italy, as well as the opportunity to grow in the United States, where interest in rallying is rising.
The Safari Rally has a rich history, first held in 1953 to celebrate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It joined the WRC calendar in 1973 and remained until 2002, before returning to the calendar in 2021. The event's retention on the 2027 calendar is a significant boost for Kenya's rallying community and the country's economy.
Key points
- The Safari Rally will take place from March 18-21, 2027, as part of the 15-round FIA World Rally Championship.
- President William Ruto confirmed that Kenya will host the WRC Safari Rally in 2027, emphasizing the event's importance and economic impact.
- The 2027 FIA World Rally Championship calendar features 15 rounds, including events in Monaco, Sweden, and Saudi Arabia.
