Finnish rally driver Lauri Pajari is gearing up for one of the toughest tests of his young career as he prepares to make his debut at the legendary Safari Rally Kenya. The 23-year-old, who is contesting his first full season in a GR Yaris Rally1, is relishing the opportunity to tackle the punishing African terrain.
Having begun his season on vastly different surfaces the asphalt of Rallye Monte-Carlo and the frozen forests of Rally Sweden Pajari now faces an entirely new challenge. The Safari Rally, known for its treacherous roads, unpredictable weather, and demanding conditions, will push the young driver to his limits.
“The season has started with some very specific rallies,” Pajari admitted. “So it’s not been easy, but so far we have done some nice stage times and had many positive moments, and hopefully it can continue like this in Kenya.”
While this will be his first competitive run in the event, Pajari is not entirely unfamiliar with Kenya’s rallying conditions. He was present for the recce in 2023, which gave him some insight into the brutal nature of the stages. However, he acknowledges that experiencing it firsthand as a competitor is an entirely different challenge.
“I was there for the recce last year, so I know a little bit what the roads are like, but it’s still going to be a huge challenge,” he noted. “The team has been really good there over the past few years, so I can expect the car to be strong, but I’m focused on my own performance as well.”
Toyota Gazoo Racing, Pajari’s team, has a strong track record at the Safari Rally, with drivers such as Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä securing wins in recent years. With this pedigree, Pajari can rely on a robust and well-prepared car, but success will also depend on his ability to adapt to the rugged terrain.
“The target is just to gain as much experience as we can, but we’re also there to do our best, and in a rally like this, anything can happen,” he added. “It will be tough, but I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
With Kenya’s unforgiving conditions ahead, Pajari’s resilience and skill will be put to the test as he takes on one of the most iconic rallies in the world.
