WRC 2025: Safari Rally shakedown in pictures

Kalle Rovanpera from Finland navigated by Jonne Halttunen driving Toyota Yaris zooms at the Sleeping Warrior 5KM Shakedown stage in Naivasha during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 on March 19, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Finnish driver Kalle Rovanpera showcased his prowess by leading Toyota to a commanding victory in the shakedown of the 2025 Safari Rally, held on the 5.16km Sleeping Warrior stage in Naivasha on March 19, 2025.

The win marks a significant step in Rovanpera's bid to defend his title on the challenging Kenyan terrain, as he aims for a third victory overall.

Spectators with their meat at the Sleeping Warrior 5KM Shakedown stage in Naivasha during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 on March 19, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Rovanpera's performance was particularly impressive as he outpaced his closest competitor, reigning world champion Thierry Neuville of Hyundai, who finished with a time of 4:36.1.

The excitement of the event drew hundreds of fans to the lakeside town, all eager to catch a glimpse of the intense competition.

Karan Patel from Kenya navigated by Tauseef Khan driving Skoda Fabia cruises at the Sleeping Warrior 5KM Shakedown stage in Naivasha during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 on March 19, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

In third place was 2019 world champion Ott Tanak, clocking a time of 4:36.4, signaling his determination to make a strong comeback six years after his previous triumph.

Ott Tanak from Estonia navigated by Martin Jarveoja driving Hyundai car cruises at the Sleeping Warrior 5KM Shakedown stage in Naivasha during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 on March 19, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

With the official rally set to begin soon, Rovanpera's shakedown victory sets a promising tone for the days ahead, as he prepares to defend his title against a talented field of drivers.

A spectator at the Sleeping Warrior 5KM Shakedown stage in Naivasha during the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 on March 19, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

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