Kenyan motorsport took a giant leap forward with the launch of the Talanta Motorsport Academy, heralding a new era of talent development in the country.
Unveiled just ahead of Safari Rally Kenya, the academy, led by the Kenya Academy of Sports, aims to unearth and nurture young motorsport prodigies while also advancing sports research.
With a capacity to accommodate over 500 children, the academy provides a platform for budding talents, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, to hone their skills and pursue careers in rallying.
The inauguration ceremony, held at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium, drew attention from dignitaries including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.
Notable WRC personalities graced the occasion, underscoring the global significance of the initiative. Ott Tänak, Oliver Solberg, Petter Solberg, along with esteemed figures like President of the WRC Commission Pernilla Solberg and WRC Promoter’s Senior Director of Sport Peter Thul, lent their support to the academy’s vision.
Deputy President Gachagua reiterated the government’s dedication to nurturing local talent, envisioning the academy as a gateway for Kenyan rally drivers to excel on the world stage.
FIA Vice President for Sport – Africa, Rodrigo Rocha, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the alignment of the Talanta Motorsport Academy with the core values of the FIA.
As Safari Rally Kenya kicked off, the spotlight shifted to the arduous challenges awaiting drivers around Lakes Naivasha and Elmenteita. With 19 grueling special stages covering 367.76km, the event promises thrills, spills, and opportunities for emerging talents to showcase their mettle.
With the Talanta Motorsport Academy now in motion, the future of Kenyan motorsport looks brighter than ever.
As young drivers rev their engines and take to the track, the academy stands as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a new generation of rallying stars to emerge and shine on the global stage.
PHOTOS: KELLY AYODI
