White Cap commits Ksh45 million to WRC Safari Rally 2026
Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has announced a Ksh45 million sponsorship for the 2026 WRC Safari Rally — a Ksh25 million increase on last year's figure...
The announcement was made on Monday at the Tusker Brew House in Ruaraka, Nairobi. White Cap, KBL’s flagship beer brand, was simultaneously named the Official Pouring Partner and Official Responsible Drinking Partner for the event.
The Safari Rally runs from 12 to 15 March in Naivasha, approximately 90 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. It marks the sixth consecutive year the event has been held under the WRC banner in Kenya.
A Bigger Spectator Experience
White Cap’s investment will reshape what fans see and feel at the rally’s spectator zones. The brand is building a premium paddock-inspired area near the iconic Miti Mbili jump — a spot already famous among rally followers worldwide.
Elevated viewing decks, exclusive hospitality zones, and live on-screen coverage will bring every competitive kilometre to life. The concept draws inspiration from fan zones at top Formula 1 circuits.
2026 Safari Rally — Fast Facts
- Dates: 12–15 March 2026, Naivasha, Kenya
- 20 special stages covering approximately 350 competitive kilometres
- First edition to include a Naivasha-based shakedown open to spectators
- White Cap is Official Pouring Partner and Official Responsible Drinking Partner
- KBL investment increased by Ksh25 million from the previous year
Why KBL Is Going Bigger
KBL Managing Director Andrew Kilonzo said the increased investment reflects Kenya’s wider ambition to grow beyond its athletics roots and become a global, multi-sport commercial hub by 2030.
“We have increased our sponsorship for the Safari Rally by Ksh25 million as a demonstration of our commitment to the sport. The investment will go towards WRC event logistics and the elevation of the overall village experience. For years, we have continued to play a part in this sport, capturing the imagination of fans.”
— Andrew Kilonzo, Managing Director, Kenya Breweries Limited
He also stressed the company’s responsibility commitments. KBL will use the event as a platform to promote environmental sustainability and water conservation — causes directly relevant to Rift Valley rally country. Spectator safety and responsible drinking form the other pillars of the partnership ethos.
One detail is drawing particular excitement from the global rally community. For the first time since the Safari Rally returned to the WRC calendar, the shakedown session will take place in Naivasha — right next to the service park.
Fans can now watch cars being pushed to their limits before competitive action even begins. Previously, the shakedown was held elsewhere, beyond the reach of most spectators.
“This year is different. The shakedown has shifted to Naivasha, giving fans an array of spots to access the rally stages. Rally enthusiasts can come and watch the cars as they prepare for competition. This is a historic moment for fans in Kenya and for the global rally audience watching live.”
— Jerry Orode, WRC Safari Rally Kenya Representative
Orode welcomed KBL’s renewed backing warmly, noting that the Safari Rally has always captured the passion of millions of Kenyan spectators — as well as international visitors who travel specifically for the event.
With large crowds expected across 20 special stages covering approximately 350 competitive kilometres, Orode issued a direct message: obey traffic marshals and take personal responsibility for safety.
White Cap’s role as Official Responsible Drinking Partner reinforces that message. The brand will actively promote safe and responsible enjoyment throughout the four-day event.
For Kenyan motorsport fans, the combination of a bigger fan village, a Naivasha shakedown, and White Cap’s expanded investment makes this edition among the most anticipated in years.
For the global rally community, it is further proof that Kenya’s Safari Rally belongs at the very top of the WRC calendar.
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