Two-time African rally champion Karan Patel has intensified preparations for the 2026 WRC Safari Rally after successfully testing his Škoda Fabia R5 at Stoni Athi ahead of the iconic global showdown, set for March 12–15 in Naivasha.
The Kenyan driver, who will be navigated by experienced co-driver Tauseef Khan, will enter the Safari Rally under the highly competitive WRC2 class, a category that has attracted some of the world’s finest rally talent.
Speaking after the Stoni Athi test session, Patel said: “The Safari Rally is always a different beast. Testing at Stoni Athi allowed us to fine-tune the suspension, braking points, and overall balance of the car for rough conditions. The Škoda Fabia R5 feels strong and reliable, and that’s exactly what you need for Safari. With 20 stages packed into four days, consistency and smart driving will be key. We respect the level of competition in WRC2, but we are ready to give it our all on home soil.”
A total of 46 crews have signed up for the 2026 edition, which will feature a refined schedule comprising 20 special stages covering a competitive distance of 350.02 kilometres across four demanding days. Known for its unforgiving terrain, unpredictable weather, and endurance-testing stages, the Safari Rally requires maximum commitment from the very first kilometre.
This year’s entry list features rally heavyweights including Oliver Solberg, Elfyn Evans, Sébastien Ogier, Adrien Fourmaux, Thierry Neuville, and Takamoto Katsuta, underscoring the global magnitude of the event.
“Preparation for Safari starts long before the rally week. We have been working on detailed pace notes, reviewing onboard footage, and simulating stage conditions to ensure precision. Communication inside the car will be critical, especially with the demanding mileage this year. Our focus is on discipline, accuracy, and managing the rally stage by stage,” said navigator Tauseef Khan.
Patel will be part of a strong regional contingent rallying under the KCB sponsorship banner, alongside Nikhil Sachania, Tinashe Gatimu, Rwanda’s Queen Kalimpinya, and Uganda’s Oscar Ntambi.
The Kenyan drivers will be aiming to make a strong impression in front of home fans as they take on the world’s best in one of the toughest rallies on the FIA World Rally Championship calendar.
