The Government of Kenya has announced a new partnership with the private sector to deliver the sixth edition of the WRC Safari Rally in 2026, signaling a major shift in how the country hosts global motorsport events.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya described the agreement as “a monumental realization of the strategic vision of William Ruto towards the full commercialization of sports and sporting assets.”
The partnership is expected to reduce the government’s annual financial burden of hosting the rally, freeing resources to support other sporting disciplines across the country.
“This landmark partnership will significantly ease the Government’s annual financial commitment to the WRC event,” Mvurya said, adding that the move will strengthen Kenya’s broader sports ecosystem.
Under the new arrangement, the private sector will take the lead in coordinating and executing the rally, supported by a restructured administrative framework. The government has already paid the promoter’s fee, paving the way for smooth preparations.
Reassuring fans and stakeholders, Mvurya stated: “Preparations for the WRC Safari Rally 2026 have been finalized, and our country is fully ready to host yet another thrilling global motorsport spectacle.”
He also confirmed that officers seconded to the WRC Safari Rally Project Secretariat will be reassigned to the Ministry until their contracts end.
Extending an invitation to fans, the Cabinet Secretary said: “I once again invite Kenyans and motorsport enthusiasts from across the world to join us in Naivasha for a bigger, better, and more electrifying rally event that continues to redefine Kenya’s sporting excellence and global stature.”
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