WRC
Evans: “We want to aim high” as Safari Rally Kenya beckons
FIA World Rally Championship leader Elfyn Evans has talked of the huge challenge which sits in wait at this week’s Safari Rally Kenya.
The Toyota GAZOO Racing driver holds a 28-point advantage at the top of the standings after two strong opening rounds but knows that Africa’s notoriously unpredictable terrain and weather could shake things up in an instant.
“The Safari is a unique rally with a special set of conditions to face,” said Evans. “It’s not easy even if it’s dry, but when you add the likelihood of rain and standing water, it can be a huge challenge just to get to the end.”
Adding another layer of intrigue, this year’s Safari marks the first time WRC crews will compete on gravel with Hankook’s new tyre.
“The focus moves to gravel where the learning starts again with another new tyre,” Evans explained. “While not representative of the roads in Kenya, our test last week was good familiarisation with this year’s specification of car on gravel and with the tyres.”
Despite the unpredictable nature of the African classic, the Welshman heads into the weekend full of confidence after a strong start to the season.
“It’s been a good start to the year for us and we can be happy with how well the first two events have gone,” he reflected.
Evans has yet to taste victory at the Safari but has come close before—securing podium finishes in 2021 and 2023.
“This has been an amazing rally for the team over recent years,” he said. “And while it’s not perhaps been my strongest event personally, we want to aim as high as possible and challenge for the win if it’s possible.”
