Kenyan rally champions Jasmeet and Ravi Chana kicked off their final preparations for the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally.
The celebrated brothers, competing under the CRS Racing Team banner, have secured renewed sponsorship from energy giant Rubis Energy Kenya and lubricants leader Castrol for their assault on one of motorsport’s most grueling challenges.
The countdown to the rally began with a series of vibrant engagements, giving the public a close-up look at the team and their powerful machine. The excitement peaked at a public rally car viewing and meet-and-greet at the Rubis Sigona service station, where motorists and dedicated fans flocked to see the car and interact with the drivers ahead of the main event.
The momentum continued with an exclusive corporate cocktail in Nairobi, a gathering that brought together the pillars of Kenya’s business and motorsport communities. The event celebrated the nation’s proud rally heritage and underscored the vital role local drivers play in keeping Kenya on the global map.
Olivier Sabrié, Chief Executive Officer for East Africa and Group Managing Director of Rubis Energy Kenya, explained the company’s deep-rooted commitment to the sport.
“The Safari Rally is more than a race; it is part of Kenya’s sporting identity and one of the most demanding events in global motorsport,” he said.
“Supporting drivers like Jasmeet and Ravi allows us to celebrate Kenyan excellence while staying connected to the communities we serve.”
For the sponsors, the partnership is also about embracing innovation and performance under pressure. Ayhan Koksal, Vice President – Castrol Middle East, Turkey & Africa, highlighted the rally’s unique prestige.
“The Safari Rally holds a special place in global motorsport because of the challenge it presents to drivers, teams, and machines,” Koksal remarked. “We are proud to partner with Rubis Energy Kenya in supporting talented Kenyan drivers as they compete on this iconic stage.”
As the reigning 2023 Kenya National Rally Championship champions, the Chana brothers carry the weight of national expectation. The Safari Rally is legendary for its punishing terrain and unpredictable weather, testing the limits of both human endurance and engineering.