Safaricom has announced a KES 46.5 million sponsorship for the 2025 WRC Safari Rally, reinforcing its commitment to supporting motorsports and technology-driven solutions for the event. The rally, set to take place from March 20 to March 23 in Naivasha, will see Safaricom playing a critical role as the official technology and connectivity partner.
Safaricom’s Role in the 2025 WRC Safari Rally
Enhanced Network Connectivity for a Global Event
As part of its sponsorship, Safaricom will deploy six (6) Cell on Wheels (C.O.W.s) to boost network capacity in key locations, ensuring seamless communication for fans, rally teams, and event officials. The designated areas set to benefit from the optimized 5G connectivity include:
- Kedong
- Elementaita
- Soysambu
- Morendat
- Hell’s Gate
These efforts will enhance live broadcasting, ensure real-time tracking, and improve fan experiences through fast and reliable network access.
Advanced IoT Solutions for Safety and Monitoring
In a bid to enhance safety, Safaricom will integrate telematic gadgets and a Smart Vehicle Tracking System into the rally’s safety caravan, including:
- Ambulances and emergency response units for real-time tracking
- Rescue vehicles for quicker response times
- General safety management tools to aid in the efficient coordination of race officials
This Internet of Things (IoT) deployment aims to streamline safety responses, ensuring both participants and spectators remain well-protected throughout the event.
World-Class Media Support for Global Coverage
Safaricom will also provide two (2) fully equipped media centers at:
- The Service Park
- Hell’s Gate
These centers will facilitate live coverage, global streaming, and real-time reporting, ensuring that the rally reaches millions of fans worldwide. Additionally, Safaricom will provide bulk data bundles to accredited media houses, allowing journalists to remain connected even outside the media centers.
Community Impact – Medical Camp for Naivasha Residents
Beyond motorsports, Safaricom is extending its impact to the local community. A medical camp will be set up in Naivasha Town, offering essential health services to residents during the rally period.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa
“This marks the fifth year that Safaricom has shown big support for the WRC Safari Rally since its return to Kenya in 2020. While we initially supported young drivers under the FIA programme, this year we are stepping in as the technology partner to enable seamless and fast network connectivity, ensuring smooth and efficient global streaming of the event. Beyond the track, we’re setting up a medical camp in Naivasha town to provide essential health services. This is our way of ensuring that the local community also benefits from the WRC.”
WRC Safari Rally CEO Charles Gacheru
“Preparations are in top gear ahead of the 2025 WRC Safari Rally, which kicks off on Thursday. I want to thank Safaricom for their continued support over the past five years, ensuring we stay connected with a strong network during this iconic global event. I urge fans to turn up in large numbers to witness the magic of the Safari Rally, as we cheer on our homegrown heroes and international stars tackling the toughest stages in the world.”
2025 WRC Safari Rally Entry List – Star-Studded Lineup
The 2025 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally has confirmed 47 entries, including top-tier drivers from leading teams:
Toyota GAZOO Racing
- Elfyn Evans (Current championship leader, 28 points ahead)
- Kalle Rovanperä (Two-time Safari Rally winner)
- Takamoto Katsuta
- Sami Pajari
Hyundai Motorsport
Hyundai aims to break Toyota’s winning streak on Safari Rally since 2020, with:
- Thierry Neuville
- Ott Tänak
- Adrien Fourmaux
M-Sport Ford
M-Sport Ford will compete with three Puma Rally1 cars, driven by:
- Grégoire Munster
- Josh McErlean
- Jourdan Serderidis (Gentleman driver)
WRC2 Category
The WRC2 category will feature a competitive lineup, including:
- Oliver Solberg (Reigning champion, Toyota GR Yaris Rally2)
- Kajetan Kajetanowicz (Debuting the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2)
- Jan Solans
- Gus Greensmith
- Diego Domínguez (FIA Junior WRC regular)
- Fau Zaldivar (Paraguay’s rising rally star)
Kenyan Rally Stars
Flying the Kenyan flag at the WRC Safari Rally will be:
- Karan Patel
- Carl Tundo
- Hamza Anwar
- Jeremiah Wahome
Safaricom’s Longstanding Commitment to Sports Development
Safaricom has consistently invested in Kenyan sports development, with motorsports being a significant area of focus. Since the WRC’s return to Kenya in 2020, the company has played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success.
This year’s sponsorship solidifies Safaricom’s commitment to:
- Enhancing rally safety through IoT solutions
- Ensuring seamless network connectivity
- Boosting global media coverage for Kenyan motorsports
- Giving back to the Naivasha community through healthcare services
With stronger connectivity, advanced safety tracking, and greater media accessibility, the 2025 WRC Safari Rally promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans, participants, and the motorsport community at large.
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