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Despite a disappointing outing in Italy, where he crashed out while leading, the Frenchman's spirits remain high as he looks forward to the sunshine and enjoyable conditions that Kenya offers.
Eight-time World Rally Champion, Sebastien Ogier, is eagerly counting down the days to his return to Kenya for the highly anticipated WRC Safari Rally.
After a disappointing outing in Italy, Ogier shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event and his deep affection for Africa.
Despite a disappointing outing in Italy, where he crashed out while leading, the Frenchman's spirits remain high as he looks forward to the sunshine and enjoyable conditions that Kenya offers.
"It's Africa. I love it," expressed Ogier in his latest blog post, adding; "Winning this event is one of the highlights of my career, really one of the special ones."
Having emerged victorious at the 2021 WRC Safari Rally and securing a third-place finish last year, Ogier holds Kenya's premier motorsport event close to his heart.
"The place is quite magical. When I hear about some of the places the World Rally Championship is thinking to go to, places which are questionable for many reasons, it really makes me happy to think about being back in Naivasha again," Ogier nostalgically expressed.
His fondness for Kenya and the warm welcome he receives from the local people make the Safari Rally an extraordinary experience for him.
Ogier's admiration extends beyond the race itself to the magnificent surroundings and the Kenyan people.
He humbly acknowledged, "When you look at the people, it's humbling to see how warm they are and for the welcome they give to us.”
“You know, really, some of these people live very quiet lives with not so much, but they want to give you everything. They never stop smiling."
Acknowledging the unique nature of the Safari Rally, Ogier highlighted the blend of high-speed racing and encounters with Kenya's extraordinary wildlife.
"To drive flat out in these fantastic cars and to come around the corner and see in the distance—hopefully in the far distance—giraffes and some of the other wildlife. It's not like anywhere else on Earth," he remarked.
"We can't forget that the roads also can be super tough," the Frenchman cautioned, drawing attention to the demanding nature of the course.
With his limited participation in the WRC this season, Ogier is determined to make the most of every opportunity.
Toyota Gazoo Racing Team, fielding four cars in Kenya, aims to secure a remarkable hat trick of wins this year, with Ogier, defending champion Kalle Rovanpera, Elfyn Evans, and Katsuta Takamoto forming a formidable line-up.
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