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Jari-Matti Latvala is optimistic about Takamoto Katsuta winning his first WRC victory at the challenging Safari Rally Kenya.
Toyota Gazoo Racing team principal Jari-Matti Latvala is optimistic about Takamoto Katsuta’s chances to claim his first FIA World Rally Championship victory at the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya, scheduled for 28 – 31 March.
As one of the most challenging events on the WRC calendar, the Safari Rally Kenya is a test of endurance and skill, known for its unpredictable weather and tough driving conditions.
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16:08 - 19.03.2024
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Kenyan drivers Carl Tundo, Andrew Muiruri, Ishmael Azeli, and Jennifer Malik will worry less about their Safari Rally preparations after a financial boost from a local betting firm.
With the 2024 WRC season entering its third round, the focus is on Katsuta, the 31-year-old Japanese driver who has shown exceptional skill and determination in past editions of the Safari Rally.
Having secured podium finishes twice in his three attempts, Katsuta’s performance has been a beacon of hope for the Toyota team, which has dominated the event since 2021.
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11:34 - 19.03.2024
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Reigning Kenya champion Jasmeet Chana will resume his KNRC title defence at the prestigious Safari Rally with five-time winner Carl Tundo among top Kenyan drivers on the roster.
Reflecting on Katsuta's impressive trajectory, highlighted by his remarkable showing at the FORUM8 Rally Japan where he secured nine stage wins, Latvala believes that the upcoming rally in Kenya could be the breakthrough moment for Katsuta.
“I hope we could get the victory for Taka, for sure,” Latvala told WRC.com.
He emphasized the importance of patience and intelligence over sheer speed, especially considering the unpredictable weather conditions that could play a significant role in the rally's outcome.
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20:00 - 15.03.2024
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This year’s Safari Rally Kenya presents a new set of challenges, as it has been moved from its usual June schedule, increasing the likelihood of wet conditions.
Kenya's rainy season could dramatically alter the rally's dynamics, transforming the dry sandy roads into slippery mudbaths.
“It’s going to be a different challenge,” Latvala acknowledged, highlighting the adjustments teams and drivers must make, including the potential use of snorkels to navigate waterlogged sections of the course.
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12:00 - 12.03.2024
MOTORSPORTS Snorkels take center stage in pre-event tests for Safari Rally
Toyota, Ford and Hyundai preparing for Safari Rally with snorkels on Rally1 cars to combat challenging Kenyan terrain and wet conditions.
The anticipation for the Safari Rally is not just about the competition but also about the strategic battle between manufacturers.
Toyota is currently neck-and-neck with Hyundai in the manufacturers’ championship, with Hyundai taking the lead in the first two rounds.
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