Toyota Gazoo Racing Eyes Victory In Safari Rally Kenya
Rally Is Known For Challenging Terrain
Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team is geared up for an exciting performance at the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya, the only African season round scheduled for March 28-31, 2024.
The Safari Rally, known for its challenging terrain, has witnessed TGR-WRT’s dominance with three consecutive victories since its return to the FIA World Rally Championship in 2021.
This year, the team is poised to extend Toyota’s record tally of wins on the event to 11, building on historic 1-2-3-4 finishes in recent years.
The team is primed for success with a formidable lineup featuring drivers Kalle Rovanperä, Elfyn Evans, and Takamoto Katsuta, each of whom has won multiple Safari podiums.
Rovanperä, the 2022 event winner, alongside Evans and Katsuta, aims to navigate the challenging conditions and clinch victory.
Traditional Date
This year, the Safari Rally returns to its traditional date earlier, potentially encountering increased rainfall, which could transform dry tracks into muddy challenges.
To navigate these conditions, teams can equip Rally1 cars with snorkel systems, a feature reminiscent of past Safari Rallies.
TGR-WRT will introduce an updated suspension system to enhance the gravel rally’s performance and reliability.
The route modifications make this the longest Safari Rally of the modern WRC era, spanning 367.76 competitive kilometres.
Team Principal Jari-Matti Latvala said, “Safari Rally Kenya is an event we always look forward to. This year, the date change could bring a different challenge: now it is the rainy season in Kenya, so there is more risk of challenging conditions.
“When it rains there, the stages can get extremely slippery and be quite challenging for drivers. Patience is always essential, especially if the weather gets difficult. Being the smartest can be the key, rather than being the fastest. Our drivers have shown what it takes to do well there, and we would like to see another Toyota win.
“It is difficult to make significant changes to the car for this one event, but we are introducing a general update for the suspension. It is also great that we can fit snorkels into the cars, which will look cool and help if more water is on the road.”
Drivers Rovanperä, Evans, and Katsuta expressed their excitement and determination for the rally, recognising its unique challenges while aiming for a strong finish.
Safari Rally Kenya promises an exhilarating spectacle as drivers tackle the unpredictable African terrain, with TGR-WRT poised to conquer the legendary event again.
Featured image: 2024 GR Yaris Rally1 Hybrid: Credit: Toyota Gazoo Racing
