NAIROBI, July 3 (Xinhua) -- The iconic Safari Rally, which runs from Friday to Sunday as a candidate event for the World Championship (WRC), will cost the Kenya government 2 million U.S. dollars.
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta has sanctioned the budget holding no stops to have the legendary event back in the WRC since it was dropped in 2002.
The Safari Rally will see 51 local and foreign drivers cruise through the 796.86 kms, of which 262.93kms will be competitive in the three days.
Sports Ministry principal secretary Karimi Kaberia said it is a worthy cause to invest the huge budget as it will help put the country on the global map and boost sports tourism.
"The government has put in a big effort, funds, security and support to make sure this year's Safari Rally is run properly. Safari Rally is part of our national priority and can't be discounted. The steering committee has done what's necessary and it's all systems go. We are ready and upbeat for the President to flag off the rally on Friday," said Kaberia on Wednesday.
The WRC is contested in Asia, South America, Europe and Australia. However, should Safari Rally pass the last hurdle that is the candidate event in 2019, it will be included in the 14-tier series in 2020.
"We are determined to make sure Kenya gets the WRC status for the 2020 season," said Kaberia.
