Safaricom’s mobile-money service, M-PESA, on Friday, announced a Ksh25 million sponsorship for the 2023 WRC Safari Rally scheduled for 22nd to 25th June in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
In partnership with Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ), Safaricom’s sponsorship will support the Kenyan FIA Rally Stars Programme, which has selected three drivers; McRae Kimathi, Hamza Anwar, and Jeremiah Wahome who will participate in the WRC3 category, driving Rally 3 Ford Fiestas.
“We are once again thrilled to be a part of this historic event. Over the past two years, our partnership with Kenya Airways has enabled us to support the WRC Safari Rally and nurture young drivers through the FIA Rally Star programme as part of our commitment to promote sports talent in the country,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom.
The FIA Rally Star programme is a global initiative that aims to identify, train, and develop talented young drivers aged between 17 and 28 years.
In addition to the Ksh25 million sponsorship, as part of Safaricom’s sustainability agenda, the telco and the rally stars will actively participate in a tree-planting initiative to mark the 2023 WRC Safari Rally.
“Safaricom has consistently offered us their unwavering support. Their dedication to nurturing young talent in this country is unmatched. We are all set for this year’s Safari Rally, and I encourage everyone to come out in large numbers to support our drivers,” said Phineas Kimathi, President of the Kenya Motorsport Federation and CEO of WRC Safari Rally.
2023 Safari Rally entries
The 2023 Safari Rally has attracted 34 entries, including WRC points leader and defending Safari Rally champion Kalle Rovanpera.
Other notable international drivers who have confirmed their participation are Sébastien Ogier, the 2021 WRC Safari Rally Champion, Ott Tänak, Evans Elfyn, Thierry Neuville, Esapekka Lappi, Dani Sordo, Katsuta Takamoto, and Solberg Oliver.
In addition to the FIA Rally Stars, the rest of the Kenyan team comprises of Patel Karan, Tundo Carl, Virani Aakif, Canobbio Piero, Singh Vohra Samman, Kavisi Evans, Rathod Minesh, and Kariuki Josiah.
