Hyundai Motorsport Aims for Victory at 2025 Safari Rally Kenya

Hyundai Motorsport targets a strong podium finish at the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, the first gravel rally of the season. The team’s strategic focus is on leveraging the enhanced 2024-spec Hyundai i20 N Rally1 car’s reliability to navigate the event’s challenging terrain. Notable drivers, including Neuville and Tänak, express readiness to tackle the unpredictable conditions and pursue success. The competition spans four days with a total of 383.10 km across several iconic stages.

The Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is poised to enhance its performance in the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship by targeting a podium finish at the Safari Rally Kenya, the first gravel rally of the season. This event is renowned for its demanding terrain, presenting challenges such as deep ruts, large rocks, and unpredictable weather that can change the course of the race at any moment.

Team members Adrien Fourmaux, Ott Tänak, and Thierry Neuville are eager to leverage their experiences with the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 car to achieve favorable results. Previous performances highlight Tänak’s podium finish in 2021 and Neuville’s strong start prior to an unfortunate retirement. The team’s strategy revolves around the enhanced reliability of the 2024-spec vehicle, crucial for a successful outcome in such a grueling rally.

The Safari Rally Kenya spans 383.10 kilometers over four days, incorporating iconic stages such as Sleeping Warrior, Soysambu, and Hell’s Gate. This year’s itinerary features eight stages on Friday—a 30km increase from 2024—as well as minor adjustments to Sunday’s schedule. Competition begins on Thursday, setting the stage for an intense weekend of rallying.

Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul emphasized the team’s determination to gain momentum in the championship standings, acknowledging the challenges posed by the rally’s rough conditions and the necessity for reliability. He expressed confidence in overcoming hurdles and attaining a commendable result through focus and resilience.

Crews Neuville/Wydaeghe and Tänak/Järveoja recognize the uniqueness of Safari Rally Kenya, with its unpredictable conditions demanding a careful and strategic driving approach. Fourmaux aims to build on last year’s podium finish by optimizing car endurance and tire management, contributing to a well-rounded effort toward success.

The event kicks off with two short stages on Thursday, followed by a packed schedule on Friday that includes the longest competitive distance of the event. Saturday reinforces the challenge with back-to-back loops of grueling stages, culminating in a final day defined by five concluding tests, featuring the renowned Hell’s Gate as the Power Stage.

In conclusion, the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is gearing up to overcome challenges at the Safari Rally Kenya, aiming for a podium finish. With a reliable vehicle and experienced drivers determined to navigate the difficult terrain effectively, they seek to build valuable momentum in the FIA World Rally Championship. The team’s preparation, strategies, and individual crew goals align towards a successful performance amidst the ever-changing conditions of this iconic rally.

Original Source: motorsport.hyundai.com