Katsuta credits Tänak support after maiden Safari Rally victory

President William Ruto with WRC Safari Rally winner Takamoto Katsuta/ HANDOUT 

Japan’s Takamoto Katsuta has revealed how Ott Tänak inspired him to a long-awaited maiden Safari Rally Kenya victory on Sunday.

The Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT driver conquered the legendary rally after years of near misses, sealing the title as the curtains fell on the gruelling event in Naivasha.

Katsuta posted a cumulative time of 3:16:05.6, holding off Adrien Fourmaux of Hyundai Motorsport, who finished second in 3:16:33.0.

Young Finnish talent, Sami Pajari, completed the podium in 3:20:31.7, rounding off a dramatic weekend on the punishing gravel stages of the World Rally Championship.

Katsuta’s triumph was the culmination of a long pursuit of Safari glory.

He first came close in 2021, finishing second in 3:18:33.1, before taking third place in 2022 with 3:42:07.6.

The Japanese driver then narrowly missed the podium in 2023, finishing fourth in 3:34:06.3, before returning in 2024 to claim runner-up honours in 3:37:41.8.

His campaign in 2025 ended prematurely. This year, however, everything came together as Katsuta delivered a composed performance to secure his first-ever WRC victory after more than 90 starts.

Katsuta revealed that his close friendship with Tänak played a significant role in helping him stay motivated throughout the demanding rally.

“Thank you to Ott (Tänak). He’s been there every single moment, sending me messages. He was waking up earlier than me. I did it thanks to you,” Katsuta said.

The emotional winner also paid tribute to his Irish co-driver, Aaron Johnston and the Toyota Gazoo Racing team for their unwavering support.

“I don’t know what to say. We have had so many difficulties and moments,” he said.

“Aaron worked very hard with me and the team has always believed in me, even when I was failing many times.”

Runner-up Fourmaux was pleased to secure Hyundai’s first podium of 2026, praising his team for overcoming technical challenges.

“Very good to get the first podium for Hyundai this year. It’s been a big effort. Thanks to the mechanics and engineers for working through every issue we had with the car,” he said.

Pajari also celebrated his breakthrough result after improving on last year’s fourth-place finish.

“It feels really nice. There are not so many drivers who can smile at the end of this rally,” Pajari said.

“Super happy with the result. Thanks to the team for keeping the car running all weekend. The pace was also pretty decent.”

Despite missing out on the Safari podium, Elfyn Evans continues to lead the WRC drivers’ championship standings with 66 points, ahead of Oliver Solberg on 58, while Katsuta’s breakthrough win lifts him to third with 55 points.

Meanwhile, President William Ruto said Kenya is firmly on course to establish itself as a global hub for motorsport development.

The president revealed that the Kenya Motorsport Federation, working with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile and the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, had been tasked with advancing two major initiatives.

These include the local production of affordable FIA cross cars and the establishment of a national rally academy to nurture young talent.

Ruto also announced that CFAO Mobility Kenya has partnered with the federation to support the project.

“I am pleased to announce that CFAO Mobility Kenya has partnered with KMSF to produce the first affordable cross-car and has also donated two Toyota Starlets to support the rally academy,” he said.

“They will also help develop training curriculum for drivers as well as mechanics.”

The president thanked all stakeholders for making the 73rd edition of the Safari Rally a success and confirmed that the private sector will take full responsibility for organising the event from next year.

“Kenya is truly proud to host this event, which has become a shining symbol of our nation’s passion for motorsport and commitment to global sporting excellence,” Ruto said.

“Over the decades, the Safari has evolved, but make no mistake — the spirit of the Safari remains alive and unchanged. This is still the most punishing gravel rally in the world.”