Takamoto Katsuta and co-driver Aaron Johnston made history at the Safari Rally Kenya by claiming their first FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) victory.
On his 94th WRC start, Katsuta became the first Japanese driver to win a WRC round since 1992, revisiting the African event where he achieved his first podium in 2021. The triumph came after a weekend of punishing conditions that eliminated many competitors, including championship leaders and top Toyota drivers.
The turning point occurred on Saturday during the grueling Sleeping Warrior stage and its demanding liaison sections. Championship leader Elfyn Evans retired with suspension damage, rally leader Oliver Solberg was forced out by a clutch failure, and Sébastien Ogier was sidelined by electrical issues. Katsuta began Sunday’s final leg with a comfortable lead of 1 minute 25.5 seconds and managed the rough Oserengoni and Hell’s Gate stages carefully, finishing 27.4 seconds ahead of his nearest rival. Adrien Fourmaux secured second place despite overheating issues, while Kalle Pajari completed the podium for Toyota.
President William Ruto was present at the finish and presented Katsuta with the winner’s trophy. He hailed the event as a landmark for Kenyan motorsport, announcing plans for a Rally Academy to train the next generation of drivers, engineers, and technicians.
Ruto highlighted government support for young talent and applauded private sector partnerships like CFAO Mobility Kenya, which donated 2 Toyota Starlets and developed training programs.
He also noted that the dualling of the Nairobi–Nakuru highway will reduce travel challenges to and from Naivasha, and that the Safari Rally will shift to full private sector funding from next year, allowing government resources to focus on sports development in schools and other areas.
