Safari Rally winner Ogier celebrates Kenya, donates over Sh2.5m to children’s project, conservancy

President Uhuru Kenyatta presents the 2021 WRC Safari Rally Kenya winner Sebastien Ogier his medal. [Kevin Gitimu]

WRC Safari Rally champion Sebastien Ogier has celebrated Kenya and donated over Sh2.5 million to the Nakuru Children’s Project and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

As a gesture of goodwill, Ogier has contributed €10,000 towards the children’s project and another €10,000 to support the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

“Few weeks ago we were celebrating our 4th win of the season at Safari Rally Kenya with incredible support from the locals in the most amazing nature.

“This wonderful country got a place in my heart – and I want to give something back.

“Education is the key for a better future so I want to support the Nakuru Children’s Project with €10,000 and we should do everything in our power to protect this wildlife so I will also make a donation of €10,000 to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy,” said Ogier in a tweet on Tuesday.

Sebastien Ogier extended his lead at the head of the World Rally Championship title race with victory in the Safari Rally last month.

Ogier benefitted from early retirement of Belgian’s Thierry Neuville, who broke his right rear shock absorber during the day's first special stage.

Frenchman Ogier came home 21.8 seconds ahead of his Toyota teammate Takamoto Katsuta with the Estonian Ott Tanak third in his Hyundai.

It was Ogier's 53rd career victory and his fourth of the season, putting the Frenchman in control of his quest to collect an eighth title.

The seventh round of the WRC takes place in Estonia from tomorrow to Sunday (July 15-18).

French Toyota driver Sebastien Ogier and Co-Driver Julien Ingrassia in action during Soysambu stage near Naivasha, Kenya. [REUTERS]