Kenyan rally champion Jasmeet Chana is embarking on an exciting new chapter as he prepares to compete in the 2025 WRC Safari Rally Kenya. The seasoned driver, who has dominated the national rally scene, is transitioning from his reliable Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 10 to a state-of-the-art Ford Fiesta R5, signaling a bold step forward in his motorsport career.
With only nine months to prepare, Chana and his CRS Racing team are racing against time to fine-tune the new rally car for the demanding event. The Safari Rally, set to take place from March 20–23, 2025, in Nairobi and Naivasha, promises to be a true test of skill, endurance, and determination.
Chana’s decision to upgrade to the Ford Fiesta R5 reflects his ambition to compete at the highest level. The Fiesta, which arrived in Kenya earlier this year, is being meticulously prepared in the family workshop in Parklands, Nairobi. Under the expert guidance of his elder brother and Chief Technical Engineer, Jaswinder Chana, the team is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the car is in peak condition.
The switch to the Fiesta has not been without challenges. Limited rally events in Kenya during 2024 meant fewer opportunities to test the new car extensively. Despite this, Chana has managed to participate in two key outings one in Nanyuki and another in Arusha, Tanzania. While these events did not yield podium finishes, they provided invaluable experience and insights into the car’s performance.
In Arusha, a mistake led to Chana’s early retirement from the event, but he views it as part of the learning process. The champion driver remains optimistic, acknowledging the steep learning curve involved in mastering the Fiesta. For Chana, the Safari Rally holds a special significance. It is not just a competition but a cherished cultural event, celebrated by fans and drivers alike.
The Fiesta R5 represents a significant upgrade from the Evo 10, offering advanced technology and superior performance capabilities. The car’s suspension system, with greater travel, is one of the key features that sets it apart. The team has also been working closely with M-Sport, the manufacturers of the Fiesta, to receive upgrades and calibrate the car for optimal performance.
Although the Fiesta’s delayed arrival forced Chana to miss the 2024 WRC Safari Rally, the team is determined to make a strong statement in the upcoming event. Competing in the WRC2 category, Chana is eager to test his pace against some of the best drivers in the world. The car’s eligibility for points in the series has further motivated the team to push their limits.
Jaswinder Chana, the technical mastermind behind the operation, has expressed confidence in the team’s progress. Despite limited seat time, he believes the Fiesta is a highly competitive machine. The team is continuously working to address the teething problems and adapt to the car’s unique dynamics.
For Jasmeet Chana, the journey is as important as the destination. He views each outing as an opportunity to grow and refine his skills. The transition to the Fiesta has been challenging, but it has also been rewarding. Chana is encouraged by his pace in the two events he has participated in and is determined to improve further.
The 2025 WRC Safari Rally will be a defining moment for Chana and his team. It is an opportunity to showcase their hard work and dedication on a global stage. As they prepare for the grueling event, the team remains focused on their goal of delivering a strong performance and making their mark in the world of rallying.
With the clock ticking, Chana is embracing the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. The Safari Rally, with its rich history and demanding terrain, is the perfect stage for the champion driver to prove his mettle. As he continues to adapt to the Fiesta R5, Chana is confident that he has what it takes to rise to the occasion and achieve his dreams.
