Safari return to WRC calendar postponed to 2021 over coronavirus

The return of Safari Rally Kenya, one of the  most popular African rallies, to the World Rally Championships circuit has been pushed to 2021 due to the effect of the Coronavirus pandemic, a government official announced Friday.



Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed said the decision was reached following agreements between the government of Kenya, WRC promoters and the International Automobile Association (FIA).



“This decision was reached following sustained discussions between the three entities since March 2020 when the coronavirus was declared a global pandemic,” said the CS in a statement issued in Nairobi. 



Amina said the pronouncement considered several factors that would undermine the magnitude of the event which was set to make return after a record 18-year hiatus. 



“Cognisant of the effect of the global challenge paused by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) on economies, cross-border travel, mass social engagement among other health concerns the organizers thought that would have restricted associated partners hence necessitating the postponement,” added Amina.



She welcomed the move saying the event which will be a significant mark in the country’s history will now take place at a suitable date to be announced later.



“We are grateful to the event’s Patron President Uhuru Kenyatta, for his unwavering support and counsel as we deliberated on the next best steps,” she said.



She applauded the efforts by the president of FIA, Jean Todt and the WRC Promoter under leadership of Oliver Ciesla for their cooperation during the engagements.



The CS, however, said the organizing teams will continue to prepare for the event adding that the ground works are already in top-gear. 



“We look forward to welcoming rally professionals, teams and enthusiasts to Kenya when the event is re-convened next year,” she noted.



Phineas Kimathi, the Chief Executive Officer of WRC Safari Rally Project, said the organizers will continue to work hard to ensure the teams deliver a world-class event when the time comes.



“We are at an advanced stage to complete the Service Park located in Nakuru County and are in line with the set completion timelines. We have also completed the event safety plan, itinerary and supplementary regulations all delivered within the given FIA and WRC timelines and will move forward to complete all the requisite arrangements,” he said.



“We encourage the drivers and all stakeholders to keep in touch with the secretariat as we ready ourselves for the new dates.”