Stage 3 Called Off as Harsh Conditions Hit WRC Safari Rally

Organisers cancel Camp Moran 2 stage after deteriorating terrain in Naivasha raises safety concerns on day two of the 2026 rally.

Day two of the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya began with an early disruption on Friday after organisers cancelled Stage 3 due to worsening road conditions in Naivasha.

The stage, Camp Moran 2, was removed from the rally schedule after officials identified major safety risks. Continuous use of the route, combined with challenging weather, had badly damaged the road surface, making it unsafe for the rally crews.

In a statement issued by Clerk of the Course George Mwangi, organisers explained that the decision was necessary to protect drivers, teams and their vehicles from potentially dangerous conditions.

With Camp Moran 2 scrapped, competitors were redirected through a liaison section heading toward Gilgil and Eburru before rejoining the rally route near Malewa.

The diversion also helps crews avoid the busy Nairobi–Naivasha–Nakuru highway, ensuring smoother movement for the rally convoy.

Rally Action Continues With Remaining Stages

Following the cancellation, the competition is expected to continue with Stage 4, Loldia 1, which is the longest stage of the rally at 25.60 kilometres.

Drivers will then tackle Stage 5, Kengen Geothermal 1, a 13.20-kilometre section that runs through the geothermal fields. The next test will be Stage 6, Kedong 1, a 13.17-kilometre stretch scheduled to begin later in the morning.

After completing the morning loop, teams will regroup at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute in Naivasha before heading back out to repeat the stages later in the day.

The cancellation of Camp Moran 2 has reduced the day’s competitive distance, which had originally been set at 136.55 kilometres.

Meanwhile, rally leader Oliver Solberg will be looking to extend Toyota Gazoo Racing’s advantage, while defending champion Elfyn Evans aims to cut the gap as the fight for dominance in Naivasha intensifies.