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Japanese driver Takamoto Katsuta, representing Toyota Gazoo Racing, has claimed his first-ever victory at the iconic Safari Rally in Kenya, ending years of near misses on one of the toughest legs of the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Katsuta completed the rally with a total time of 3:16:05.6, finishing ahead of Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux, who recorded 3:16:33.0, while rising star Sami Pajari took third place with 3:20:31.7.
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An emotional Katsuta expressed gratitude to Toyota Gazoo Racing and his family for their support. “Toyota has always believed in me, and this achievement is thanks to the whole team. My family has also been there for me throughout,” he said.
This win marks Katsuta’s first WRC triumph after more than 90 rally starts and his first success on Kenyan soil. His pursuit of Safari glory began in 2021, the year the rally returned to the WRC calendar. That year, he finished second with a cumulative time of 3:18:33.1, narrowly behind teammate Sébastien Ogier (3:18:11.3).
In 2022, Katsuta finished third with a time of 3:42:07.6, as Toyota dominated the podium with Kalle Rovanperä (3:40:24.9) and Elfyn Evans (3:41:17.7). The following year, he placed fourth (3:34:06.3) while Toyota secured the top four positions. Katsuta returned to second place in 2024, finishing behind Rovanperä (3:36:04.0) with 3:37:41.8.
The 2025 rally was particularly challenging, as Katsuta rolled his Toyota GR Yaris during the decisive Power Stage, costing him and Toyota crucial points in the manufacturers’ championship.
In 2026, Katsuta executed a consistent campaign, taking the rally lead on Saturday after early pacesetters Oliver Solberg and Ogier retired due to mechanical issues. He carried a 1 minute 25 second advantage into Sunday.
On Super Sunday, the stages remained highly competitive:
- SS17 Oserengoni 1 (18.22 km): Ogier posted the fastest time (11:18.9), followed by Solberg (11:22.7) and Fourmaux (11:28.3).
- SS18 Hell’s Gate 1: Evans led with 5:32.4, Solberg was second (5:35.9) and Ogier third (5:36.1).
- SS19 Oserengoni 2: Solberg set the quickest time (10:58.1), Ogier (11:02.5) and Evans (11:05.3) followed.
- SS20 Hell’s Gate 2 (Wolf Power Stage): Solberg again posted the fastest time (5:32.2), followed by Ogier (5:35.0) and Evans (5:36.7).
Katsuta’s victory ends his long wait for Safari success and adds his name to the list of drivers who have conquered one of WRC’s most demanding rallies.
