President has commended the private sector for taking a leading role in supporting the iconic , noting that their involvement will significantly ease the financial burden on the government while strengthening the future of the global motorsport event.
Speaking during the rally event at in , the president praised corporate sponsors and partners for taking up the responsibility of hosting, managing, promoting, and funding the prestigious championship.
Ruto revealed that beginning in 2027, the Safari Rally will be fully funded by the private sector, a move he said will allow the government to redirect public resources towards broader sports development initiatives across the country.
“With their support, WRC Safari Rally 2027 will be fully funded by the private sector. This will free up government resources to strengthen sports development,” the president said.
The head of state also addressed concerns raised by motorists and residents over traffic congestion experienced during the rally along the busy . He assured Kenyans that the situation will soon improve once major infrastructure works are completed.
According to Ruto, the government is fast-tracking the dualling of the , which he said will significantly ease traffic flow between Nairobi and the Rift Valley region.
“We assure Kenyans that this will be the last Safari Rally they have had to endure traffic congestion on the Nairobi–Naivasha highway. By next year, the government will have completed the dualling of the Rironi–Nakuru section,” he said.
The president attended the rally’s thrilling stages at Hell’s Gate, where thousands of motorsport fans gathered to witness the action as drivers battled the rugged terrains that have made the Safari Rally famous worldwide.
He also congratulated the winners, and co-driver of , for their outstanding performance during the competition.
Ruto further applauded all participants, organizers, and sponsors for contributing to the success of the event, which continues to position Kenya as a premier global motorsport destination and boost tourism in the region.
