Nairobi, 23 March 2025: In a landmark achievement for Indian motorsport, driver Naveen Pulligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif have develop into the primary “all-Indian staff” to take part within the World Rally Championship (WRC). The duo competed within the iconic Safari Rally Kenya 2025, held from March 20 to 23, representing the Africa Eco Motorsport staff within the WRC3 and African Rally Championship 3 (ARC3) class of this gruelling occasion. The duo have been on the verge of finishing the rally, however their luck failed as they encountered mechanical points with simply two Particular Levels remaining.
Naveen Pulligilla: A Rising Star in Indian Motorsport
Hailing from Hyderabad, Naveen Pulligilla is an completed off-road driver with a rising status within the rallying group. His worldwide expertise consists of participation within the Asia Pacific Rally Championship in New Zealand in 2024. Identified for his exact and aggressive driving fashion, Naveen has been an energetic competitor within the Indian Nationwide Rally Championship, persistently showcasing his ability and dedication on difficult terrains.
Musa Sherif: India’s Most Adorned Co-Driver
Musa Sherif, from Kasaragod, Kerala, brings over 33 years of rallying expertise to the partnership. As India’s most embellished co-driver, he has participated in additional than 330 rallies, together with 91 worldwide occasions, and has secured 10 nationwide championship titles. Musa’s journey in motorsports started in 1993, and since then, he has develop into a stalwart within the area, recognized for his meticulous navigation abilities and strategic acumen.
The Safari Rally Kenya 2025: A Formidable Problem
The Safari Rally Kenya is famend for its demanding terrain, unpredictable climate, and breathtaking landscapes. The 2025 version featured 21 difficult levels, masking a aggressive distance of 383.10 km inside a complete rally distance of 1,381.92 km. Levels reminiscent of Camp Moran, Loldia, and Hell’s Gate are significantly famous for his or her technical complexity and pure magnificence.
Preparation and Efficiency
In preparation for this formidable occasion, Naveen and Musa underwent pre-rally testing in Indonesia with technical help from MRU Motorsport, Malaysia. Additionally they performed further testing and reconnaissance runs in Kenya to familiarize themselves with the difficult terrain. Their objective was to complete robust and achieve precious expertise on the world stage.
Historic Context and Future Aspirations
Earlier than this achievement, Indian rally drivers like Gaurav Gill and Amittrajit Ghosh had made important contributions to the game. Gaurav Gill participated within the WRC with international co-drivers, whereas Amittrajit Ghosh competed within the European Rally Championship (ERC). The participation of Naveen and Musa as an all-Indian staff within the WRC marks a major milestone, paving the best way for larger recognition of Indian rallying expertise and galvanizing extra Indian drivers to compete internationally.
