Kenya Welcomes the World to 2025 East Africa Safari Classic Rally
Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya addressing Officials, participants and the media in Nairobi on November 27, 2025, as he welcomed the world to the 2025 East Africa Safari Classic Rally and highlighted Kenya’s motorsport heritage.
Kenya is set to host the 12th edition of the East Africa Safari Classic Rally from December 5th to 13th. The nine-day event will traverse Kwale, Taita Taveta, Makueni, and Kajiado counties.
It will feature historic vehicles manufactured before 1985, attracting local and international crews. The rally offers a rare opportunity for Kenya to showcase its heritage, landscapes, and tourism potential.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya welcomed participants and emphasized Kenya’s proud motorsport history. He said the event celebrates endurance, skill, and Kenya’s rallying legacy.
He highlighted the importance of this global gathering for local counties along the route.
“The East Africa Safari Classic Rally is more than a competition. It celebrates our rich rallying heritage while offering Kenya, particularly the counties along the route, an unparalleled opportunity to shine on the international stage,” he said.
He pointed out Kenya’s established global reputation for hosting major sporting events.
The country has consistently demonstrated organizational excellence and leadership in motorsport.
Mvurya noted that this year’s rally will strengthen Kenya’s position as a premier destination for international competitions.
“Hosting the Rally for the 12th edition is a testament to Kenya’s credibility, preparedness, and leadership in motorsports and international sporting events,” he said.
He also emphasized Kenya’s natural landscapes and their role in testing endurance racing.
The country’s diverse terrain from coastal plains to rugged hinterlands offers unmatched challenges for competitors.
He said the rally provides a platform to attract tourism, investment, and global attention.
“From the coastal plains to the rugged hinterlands, Kenya continues to provide an unrivalled stage for motorsport, reinforcing our position as the heartbeat of African rallying,” he said.
Deputy Clerk of the Course Riyaz Ismail outlined the rally schedule and competitive demands for participants. He said crews will navigate over 2,000 kilometres with limited support vehicles, intensifying the challenge. Ismail highlighted the endurance required for drivers and navigators over varied terrains.
“After four days of grueling stages, there will be a rest day, then competitors complete the remaining legs in reverse sections. This year, we have over 2,000 kilometres of competitive driving and only one service car per competitor, making it a true marathon rally,” he said.
He also described the behind-the-scenes organization that ensures the event runs smoothly.
A small core team handles logistics, finance, accommodation, and safety coordination.
He stressed the level of precision required for a world-class international rally.
“The rally is meticulously organized. The core team of five to six people coordinates everything from accommodation to finance and logistics to ensure a smooth event,” he said.
Chairman of the East Africa Safari Rally Joey Ghose explained how consistency and strategy are key to success in the classic rally.
He said endurance, adaptability, and careful navigation determine the winners, not sheer speed. Ghose emphasized that competitors must handle all weather and terrain conditions professionally.
“It will not be the fastest driver who wins, but the most consistent. Competitors must be prepared for mud, dust, and all conditions,” he said.
Ghose further highlighted the safety measures in place for the rally. He noted that the organizers carefully assess conditions to protect participants and the public. Safety remains the top priority throughout the demanding nine-day event.
“Our priority is the safety of competitors, officials, and the public. If it’s safe to rally, we will go rally,” he said.
Top drivers include Baldev Chaga, Peas Daikin, Eugenio Amos in a Ferrari, Josh Westhampton, Martin Sachs, and Jordan Sedaris.
Car eligibility remains strictly pre-1985, with notable entries such as Francis Abrial and Michael Perrin in a Citroen.
The event is expected to boost tourism and showcase Kenya’s landscapes to global audiences.
The 2025 East Africa Safari Classic Rally promises to be a landmark event for Kenya, combining the thrill of historic motorsport with the opportunity to showcase the country’s landscapes, culture, and hospitality to a global audience.
With top local and international drivers, challenging terrains, and extensive media coverage, the rally is expected to attract sports enthusiasts, tourists, and investors alike, further strengthening Kenya’s position as a premier destination for adventure and sports tourism in Africa.
