Safari Classic Rally team outlines plan to expand future programme

The organizers of the East African Safari Classic Rally have outlined a bold expansion of its future programme, confirming a series of new events designed to revive the spirit of East Africa’s pioneering rally era, while opening fresh avenues for tourism and driver development.

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The plans have been backed by fresh details from the chairman Joey Ghose, who spoke ahead of the 2025 MRF Tyres East African Safari Classic Rally set to be held this weekend at the Diani Leisure and Golf Resort at the South Coast.

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Ghose confirmed that two additional events, East African Classic Raid, and the East African Classic Tour, are being prepared for next year.

The East African Classic Tour will be a new tour event created for enthusiasts, who want to enjoy Kenya’s landscapes without the pressure of competition.

“It is a non-competitive event mainly for tourism, and for those who have lovely cars," Ghose said. "We cannot drive them at high speeds, but we want to take them to the best places in Kenya. It really helps tourism and relaxation.”

The chairman, who is also taking part in this year's Classic Rally navigated by Gordon Noble in a Tuthil prepared Porsche 911, added that the second event will be similar to a mini Paris–Dakar-style run.

He added that they will be collaborating with several experienced Dakar Rally teams and competitors, to ensure the event meets international endurance and safety standards, while showcasing some of the toughest terrain in the region.

But the centerpiece of the expanded calendar is a revival of the Coronation Rally, as a tribute to the original 1953 Coronation Safari, and a key part of the 75-year rallying celebrations.

The chairman revealed that the internal working format for the new edition will be even more demanding than previously hinted.

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“This rally is going to be about four days long. It will be about 4,000 km, and will be run in the shortest time,” he said. “No end-of-day service. You know these two-hour services and all that gone. Those who remember the days we used to drive, drive, drive… people like Ari Vatanen starting the second leg when we are arriving at the end of the first. Have a half-hour break, a shower, and start again. It is all going to be included, including night driving.”

As for the weekend's East African Safari Classic Rally, action will begin at Diani, before traversing six legs between Voi and Amboseli, before returning to the Diamond Leisure Beach and Golf Resort finish on Saturday, 13 December.