The future for rally looks bright, says Safari Rally CEO Kimathi

The Kenya Motorsport Federation chief executive officer Phineas Kimathi has expressed optimism in the future of motorsport, saying the current young drivers will carry the Kenyan flag high for years to come.

“The future is safe in the hands of these young drivers who are currently doing well behind the steering. I can assure motorsport fans that from next year onwards, we will have these young great drivers flying the country’s flag and they will impress for a long time,” said Kimathi.

Kimathi promised Kenyans a great showpiece, saying that plans to make the event better are at the home stretch. He urged Kenyans to come in large numbers to cheer the drivers racing on home soil since it is a rare opportunity.

“We are finalising the preparations. I plead with rally fans to come and support the only rally in Africa on the World Rally Championship circuit.

“Their participation is substantial and will help us maintain the rally’s core value in the future,” he added.

The former rally driver further acknowledged the support offered by Kenya Airways, sayings: “It feels great to see an international company partnering with us to nurture talent in motorsport.”

Kimathi said all the drivers are expected to arrive over the weekend for the three-day ( June 23-25) in Naivasha.

In the meantime, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka reiterated the company’s support in developing young rally drivers.

“We want to cement our partnership with Motorsport Kenya and World Rally Championship. We will continue supporting the growth of young talent in the sport,” said Kilavuka.

“These young champions are the future and face of the country. They are good ambassadors and they inspire other youths to also do the best in their careers. Our target has always been to support the youths.”

Kilavuka added that the drivers will benefit from flight sponsorships to their rally events or their holiday destination.