A rally car kicks up dust on a gravel stage in Naivasha as Kenya prepares to host the 2027 WRC season. (Photo: Football news)
Kenya will host the 2027 World Rally Championship Safari Rally from March 18 to 21 in Naivasha. President William Ruto confirmed the dates, securing Kenya’s place on the global motorsport calendar.
The event will once again put Kenya’s landscapes and motorsport culture before a global audience. It is also expected to benefit businesses in hospitality, transport, tourism and trade across Nakuru County.
Safari Rally Gets New Funding Model
President Ruto highlighted the rally’s economic and tourism value while commending the Ministry of Sports and other partners. He also recognised the FIA, WRC Promoter, the Safari Rally Project and private-sector players for supporting Kenya’s place on the calendar.
The 2027 edition will also introduce a major change in funding. The government plans to stop using exchequer funds to promote the Safari Rally, shifting the event toward commercial sponsorships and private-sector investment.
The new model is expected to reduce reliance on public financing while encouraging businesses to play a bigger role in the rally’s future. Organisers will therefore need to strengthen partnerships ahead of the 2027 event.
Kenya Gets Third WRC Round
The 2027 WRC season will feature 15 rounds across five continents. Rallye Monte-Carlo will open the championship from January 21 to 24, followed by Rally Sweden from February 18 to 21.
Kenya will host the third round from March 18 to 21 before the championship moves to Croatia in April. The calendar will then take competitors across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and South America.
Later rounds will include events in Spain, Japan, Greece, Italy, Estonia, Finland, the United States, Scotland, Paraguay and Chile. Saudi Arabia will host the season finale from November 25 to 28.
Preparations Begin for 2027
With the dates confirmed, attention now shifts to preparations for the Naivasha event. Organisers will focus on logistics, commercial partnerships, infrastructure and the wider experience for fans and visitors.
The Safari Rally remains one of Kenya’s biggest international sporting events. Its return in 2027 will provide another opportunity to showcase the country while strengthening the private-sector model supporting the competition.
