KCB Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to motorsport by sponsoring the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally for the fifth consecutive year, contributing Ksh. 209 million to the event scheduled from March 20 to 23, 2025, in Naivasha.
This sponsorship includes Ksh. 100 million allocated to the Kenya Motorsport Federation (KMSF) for event preparations and logistics, ensuring a seamless rally experience. An additional Ksh. 23 million is designated to support four Kenyan rally drivers: Karan Patel, Nikhil Sachania, Tinashe Gatimu, and Evans Kavisi. Notably, Gatimu will debut as part of the KCB racing team, while Kavisi returns after a year-long hiatus.
The remaining Ksh. 86 million is earmarked for activations, hospitality, branding, and the “Revvvisha na KCB” campaign, which aims to promote a savings culture among Kenyans.
Since the WRC Safari Rally’s return to Kenya in 2021, KCB has invested Ksh. 800 million as the lead sponsor. Over the past two decades, the bank has dedicated Ksh. 2.3 billion to motorsports, fostering opportunities for drivers and navigators to develop their talents and elevating Kenya’s status as a premier motorsports destination.
KCB Group CEO Paul Russo emphasized the broader significance of the event, stating, “The WRC Safari Rally is more than just a motorsport event. We see it as a platform to showcase Kenya’s potential on the global stage. At KCB, we believe in pushing boundaries, and through our support, we hope to enable Kenyan drivers to excel while supporting Kenya’s socio-economic ambitions.”
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, lauded KCB’s dedication, noting, “The WRC Safari Rally has become a hallmark of Kenya’s global sporting calendar, attracting thousands of visitors and injecting billions into our economy. We commend KCB Bank for its steadfast commitment to not only this event but also the broader development of sports in Kenya. Their support ensures that local talents continue to shine on the global stage.”
The 2025 Safari Rally is anticipated to be a landmark event, combining world-class motorsport with Kenya’s stunning landscapes, and further solidifying the nation’s position in the global rallying community.