ARC Equator Rally postponed amidst unforeseen challenges

©Karan Patel Racing

ARC Equator Rally postponed amidst unforeseen challenges

Festus Chuma 21:30 - 03.05.2024

The 2024 ARC Equator Rally in Kenya has been indefinitely postponed and is awaiting new dates and approval from the World Motorsport Council.

The African Rally Championship (ARC) organizers have confirmed the indefinite postponement of the 2024 Equator Rally which was initially scheduled to roar into action from June 28-30. 

This decision comes as a result of logistical challenges that have halted the event's preparations with safety concerns at the forefront of the organizers' priorities.

In an official statement released by the Kenyan Motorsport Federation (KMSF) in conjunction with the ARC, it was disclosed that current heavy rains and constant flooding have led the bodies to make this tough decision.

"We wish to notify all rally teams and their supporters that the 2024 Equator Rally, a keystone event eagerly anticipated in Kenya, will be rescheduled. The new dates will be communicated as soon as the administrative processes are finalized," it reads.

The rally’s stages designed to challenge the skills of participating drivers are currently inaccessible due to environmental conditions that have rendered the planned routes impractical for both driving and event setup.

"The recent spate of heavy rains in Kenya, and constant flooding have made it impossible for the event organizers to commence with the planning of the event.

 "Stages are swamped, and it is not possible to drive or access the areas where the rally is planned to take place. Preparations for this event have come to a complete stop.

"The Kenyan Motorsport Federation (KMSF) has applied to the FIA for approval of the date change due to the current circumstances," the statement adds.

The postponement is speculated to be a blessing in disguise for some competitors providing additional time to strategize and familiarize themselves with the challenging routes. 

Reigning Africa Rally Champions, Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan who previously showcased their prowess in a Ford Fiesta Rally 2 car are among those who might benefit from this delay.

Patel and Khan are looking to defend their title against formidable competitors like Ugandan Jas Mangat and Yasin Nasser who are also gearing up to make a strong showing in the upcoming rally.

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