WRC 2026 Safari Rally: Speedster Leonardo Varese proves to be fans' favourite in Naivasha
The six-time 2WD national champion Leonardo Varese has plans to go for the jugular in the main WRC categories in the coming seasons...
✨ Key Highlights
Local rally driver Leonardo Varese is a crowd favourite at the ongoing WRC Safari Rally in Naivasha, drawing thousands of spectators to the stages.
- Leonardo Varese, piloting a Toyota GR Yaris Rally3, is competing for the Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) top spot.
- SportPesa is a major sponsor, providing Varese with a new car and setting up hospitality tents for fans.
- Despite a stage cancellation due to rain on Friday, fans are treated to an exciting racing experience with hospitality and large screens provided by SportPesa.
Continue Reading
Read the complete article from Standard Sports
Part of the Day's Coverage
Takamoto Describes Double Front Puncture at Kedong' Two - March 2026
Takamoto Katsuta of Toyota Gazoo Racing Team described the double front puncture he experienced at Kedong' Two during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya on Friday afternoon as the worst in his career at this event. The 2026 Safari Rally in Naivasha is showcasing new tyre technology designed to handle extreme off-road conditions, with Hankook Tire introducing a successful new soft gravel tyre specification. Rain created significant challenges for drivers, turning what is typically an exciting race into a nightmare with unpredictable and treacherous conditions, transforming stage conditions from dust to treacherous mud and water. Meanwhile, Oliver Solberg of Sweden maintains a slim one-second lead after Day 2, as Toyota crews dominate the top positions. Local rally driver Leonardo Varese has drawn thousands of spectators to the stages, becoming a crowd favourite.
