Nairobi/Naivasha, Kenya – March 21, 2025 – The FIA Affordable Cross Car made a landmark appearance on the opening day of Safari Rally Kenya in Nairobi on Wednesday 20 March, officially presented and supported by His Excellency President William Ruto at the ceremonial start. Fourteen-year-old Kenyan driver Cheche Ababu then took the wheel for a televised demonstration run ahead of the Kasarani Super Special Stage, showcasing the vehicle’s potential to grow grassroots motorsport in Africa.
Unveiled in Kigali, Rwanda, during the FIA General Assembly last December by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA-led project now enters an exciting new phase with strong governmental and institutional backing.
Built in just one month by students at the IPRC Polytechnic school Kigali, the cross car showcased in Nairobi was developed said:
“I barely slept the night before – I was so excited! The rain and strong wind made me think the run might not happen, but we pulled it off, and it was incredible. I only wish opportunities like this had existed earlier. That said, I’m here now, aiming to reach the top level nationally and step up to more powerful cars like Rally2s in the next two years, and my ultimate goal is to reach the top tiers of motorsport – whether that’s F1 or Rally1. Between karting and cross car, it’s hard to choose, but I think I prefer this because I’ve been competing in it longer. It’s been an amazing experience!”
World Rally Championship
Cross Car
SEASON 2025SportRallies1SportWorld Rally ChampionshipRalliesSEASON 2025Cross Car00Friday, March 21, 2025 – 5:03pmFriday, March 21, 2025 – 5:03pm
Source : Fia
