Rally driver Leonardo Varese and his navigator Kigondu Kareithi/ HANDOUT Six-time Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) 2WD champion Leonardo Varese will be chasing a podium finish in the national category when he lines up for this year’s iconic WRC Safari Rally scheduled for March 12–15.
For the gruelling Safari Rally showdown, Varese will once again partner long-time navigator Kigondu Kareithi, with the experienced duo set to debut their new Toyota Yaris GR4. Their campaign is backed by gaming firm SportPesa.
Varese says the combination of fresh machinery and vast championship experience has given him renewed belief ahead of one of the toughest events on the World Rally Championship calendar.
“This is a year to anticipate. Competing in the national championship category will be a highlight. I now have a more powerful car and the experience from past championships,” Varese said.
His primary focus will be to muscle his way onto the national podium in a category that is traditionally stacked with seasoned local and international competitors.
“With this locally prepared machine, I believe we are in a strong position to contend for the podium in the national category,” he added.
At last year’s Safari Rally, Kenyan ace Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo dominated the national classification after finishing as the highest-placed local driver, ending the rally 14th overall in a Ford Fiesta Rally2.
Jeremiah Wahome finished second in the national standings, placing 15th overall in a Skoda Fabia RS Rally2, while reigning national champion Samman Vohra completed the podium in 19th overall aboard a Skoda Fabia Rally2 evo.
Varese is no stranger to the demands of the Kenyan rally scene, having built a reputation as one of the most consistent performers on the local circuit.
In 2022, he stamped his authority in the KNRC 2WD/Division 3 category, amassing 171 points behind the wheel of a Toyota Auris. That season saw Zameer Verjee, navigated by Zahir Shah, finish second, with Rio Smith and co-driver Riyaz Ismail third.
Varese’s dominance in the 2WD class spans more than a decade, with previous national titles coming in 2008, 2010, 2014, 2015 and 2017.
Beyond his Safari Rally ambitions, Varese’s Sh40 million sponsorship deal with SportPesa will also support the next generation, backing his son Adriano Varese and his co-driver’s son Jason Kareithi as they pursue rallying careers.
“Rallying has given my family everything. To now see my son supported to chase the same dream is something I don’t take lightly,” he said.
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