Nairobi (Kenya), 19 March 2025: Indian motorsport marks a big milestone as Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif are set to change into the primary all-Indian staff in WRC as they compete within the iconic Safari Rally Kenya 2025, a spherical of the World Rally Championship (WRC), from March 20 to 23.
Competing for Africa Eco Motorsport staff, the duo will participate within the WRC3 ARC3 class (African Rally Championship) in one of many most-gruelling occasions within the WRC calendar. Primarily based in Naivasha, Kenya, the rally will characteristic 21 difficult levels spanning a aggressive distance of 383.10 km, with a complete rally distance of 1381.92 km, testing endurance and ability.
“The Safari Rally is without doubt one of the hardest challenges in motorsport, however we’re ready for the grind. Our purpose is to complete sturdy and acquire priceless expertise,” mentioned co-driver Musa Sherif.
“This can be a dream come true. Competing within the WRC Safari Rally is a large honour, and we’re able to showcase what Indian rallying is able to,” added driver Naveen Pulligilla, who not too long ago accomplished pre-rally testing in Indonesia in a Rally3 automobile, with technical help from MRU Motorsport, Malaysia.
Pulligilla, an completed off-road driver from Hyderabad, competed within the Asia Pacific Rally Championship in New Zealand final yr. His co-driver, Musa Sherif from Kasargod, is India’s most adorned co-driver with over 33 years of expertise, ten nationwide championship titles, and participation in 331 rallies, together with 91 worldwide occasions. Each actively compete within the Indian Nationwide Rally Championship. Naveen’s exact and aggressive driving type, mixed with Musa’s seasoned navigation and technique, units the stage for a landmark Indian presence in WRC.
The 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, the third spherical of the WRC season, is famend for its demanding terrain, unpredictable climate, and breathtaking landscapes. The rally will embody levels reminiscent of Camp Moran, Loldia, and Hell’s Gate, recognized for his or her technical complexity and pure magnificence.
This historic participation marks a proud second for Indian motorsport. “Hope it paves the best way for better recognition of Indian rallying expertise, and hopefully conjures up extra Indians to race overseas,’’ concluded Naveen and Musa.
