Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team seeks a podium finish at the Safari Rally Kenya, the third round of the 2025 WRC season. The event’s demanding gravel terrain presents various challenges, and drivers are prepared to navigate risks while leveraging their experience with the Hyundai i20 N Rally1. The rally spans four days and includes significant stages with an emphasis on reliability and performance.
The Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team aims for a podium finish at the Safari Rally Kenya, the third round of the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) season. This event presents unique challenges due to its gravel terrain, featuring risks such as deep ruts and unpredictable weather, all while navigating the scenic but tough African plains. The team seeks to build momentum and deliver a strong performance following a difficult season start.
Drivers Adrien Fourmaux, Ott Tänak, and Thierry Neuville are prepared to leverage their experience with the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 to tackle the complexities of the rally. Notably, Tänak previously secured Hyundai’s only podium in the event’s history in 2021 after Neuville’s unfortunate retirement. The team’s focus in Naivasha highlights the necessity for reliability and robust performance to maximize points during this pivotal rally.
The event will span 383.10 km over four days, featuring renowned stages such as Sleeping Warrior and Hell’s Gate. The rally commences on Thursday afternoon with two initial tests, followed by a heavy schedule on Friday that includes eight stages, amid increased competitive distances. While Saturday follows last year’s itinerary, Sunday’s stages include minor adjustments to enhance the experience.
Cyril Abiteboul, Hyundai Motorsport President and Team Principal, emphasized the importance of reliability and skill: “Our goal for Safari Rally Kenya is clear and simple: we need to have a strong weekend to build momentum in the championship fight.” He noted the nature of the rally as a test of endurance and stability, acknowledging that unexpected challenges may arise during the competition.
Thierry Neuville expressed confidence in navigating the unique challenges of the rally, stating: “Despite being rough like Greece, Kenya’s conditions, weather and surface can change very quickly.” He aims to build on the team’s previous successes and strives for a podium finish. Similarly, Ott Tänak underscored the need for precise risk management due to the demanding nature of the course, as well as maintaining trust in the car’s reliability.
Adrien Fourmaux reflected on last year’s podium success and acknowledged the criticality of endurance and smart car management necessary for this year’s exciting yet challenging event. He indicated a readiness to adapt to various conditions and hopes to repeat last year’s achievements.
The rally will kick off with short stages on Thursday, leading to the longest day with eight stages on Friday. Challenging loops on Saturday will precede the final day of competition that concludes with the iconic Power Stage, Hell’s Gate.
In summary, the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team enters the Safari Rally Kenya with determination to rebound from a rocky start to the 2025 WRC season. With experienced drivers and a focus on performance and reliability, the team aims to secure a podium finish amidst the unique challenges posed by this demanding gravel rally. The event promises excitement across four jam-packed days of competition.
Original Source: motorsport.hyundai.com
