The WRC Safari Rally remains one of the championship’s most iconic and fan-favorite events. Steeped in history and heritage, the rally is globally respected for its unforgiving nature and uniqueness
As Kenya gears up for the return of the World Rally Championship in February, Nairobi will notably be missing from the route of the Safari Rally Kenya, marking a significant shift from previous editions.
The omission of the capital city signals the end of the popular Kasarani spectator stage, which has in recent years provided a thrilling rally experience for city residents unable to travel to Naivasha, the traditional heartland of the event. Kasarani had become a key urban showcase, drawing large crowds and bringing the WRC spectacle closer to Nairobi-based fans.
In another milestone change, the rally has also been reduced by one day. Unlike previous editions where shakedown activities were held on Wednesday, the 2026 event will now begin on Thursday, in line with updated championship regulations. The official shakedown will take place on a five-kilometre stretch along Nawisa, offering crews a final opportunity to fine-tune their cars before the start of competitive stages.
The WRC Safari Rally remains one of the championship’s most iconic and fan-favorite events. Steeped in history and heritage, the rally is globally respected for its unforgiving nature and unique character.
According to rally officials, revised WRC regulations now require events to be run strictly over four days (Thursday to Sunday). This compressed schedule has made it impractical to include Nairobi within the rally itinerary, given logistical demands and time constraints.
Despite the changes, the Safari Rally’s reputation remains intact. Widely regarded as one of the most gruelling and technically demanding rounds on the WRC calendar, the event is set against Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and is defined by rough gravel roads, sudden weather shifts, and unpredictable conditions. These elements combine to create a true test of endurance, mechanical reliability, and driver skill.
2026 FIA World Rally Championship Calendar:
- Rallye Monte-Carlo (France) – 22–25 January
- Rally Sweden – 12–15 February
- Safari Rally Kenya – 12–15 March
- Croatia Rally – 9–12 April
- Rally Islas Canarias – 23–26 April
- Vodafone Rally de Portugal – 7–10 May
- Rally Japan – 28–31 May
- EKO Acropolis Rally (Greece) – 25–28 June
- Rally Estonia – 16–19 July
- Secto Rally Finland – 30 July–2 August
- Ueno Rally del Paraguay – 27–30 August
- Rally Chile Bio Bío – 10–13 September
- Rally Italia – 1–4 October
- Rally Saudi Arabia – 11–14 November