President William Ruto has opted out of an opportunity to experience another exhilarating Safari Rally ride during the highly anticipated World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally Kenya 2025. This decision contrasts with his participation in the previous rally, where he described the experience as unforgettable.
During the last Safari Rally, Ruto took a thrilling ride and later expressed his admiration for the skill and professionalism of the rally drivers. “It was a wonderful experience. It’s great, really, and absolute madness, but it’s an experience you cannot forget. The speed you can hardly see the road, the bends they are really professional,” he remarked at the time.
However, when rally driver Minesh Rathod extended an invitation for the President to take another ride this year, Ruto respectfully declined. The offer was made during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, on Monday. While reminiscing about his past ride, the President acknowledged that it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that he would always cherish.
“It was actually a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there (in the field), things are not what they seem,” he said in a lighthearted moment.
Despite Minesh Rathod’s attempts to persuade him, Ruto stood firm, citing safety concerns raised by those close to him. “I don’t think my friends will allow that to happen. Last time when I attempted that, they really took issue with it, citing safety concerns,” the President explained.
While he may not be participating in the rally as a passenger this year, Ruto emphasized the significance of the WRC event to Kenya. He highlighted the rally’s role in showcasing Kenyan drivers’ talent, uniting fans, and boosting tourism.
“Rally is important because it showcases Kenya as a sporting nation. It gives us a chance to enjoy and see the skills of our Kenyan drivers while bringing Kenyans together for an entertainment-filled weekend. It also boosts tourism, with participants and fans coming from neighboring countries and beyond,” he said.
The WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 is set to take place from Thursday to Sunday, March 23, 2025. The event remains a key fixture in Kenya’s sporting calendar, attracting international rally stars and fans from across the world.
