The build-up to the 2026 WRC Safari Rally has received a uniquely Kenyan touch after the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team unveiled a special wildlife themed livery inspired by the country’s rich natural heritage.

The tribute will see the team’s Hyundai i20 N Rally1 machines carry designs inspired by iconic Kenyan wildlife, including the giraffe, elephant, zebra and hippopotamus. The artwork, accompanied by the tagline “Oh Look! Over There!”, is intended to highlight Kenya’s global tourism identity as the “Origin of Wonder” while bringing a distinctly local flavour to one of the most demanding rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship.

Vivo Energy Kenya Managing Director Peter Murungi welcomed the initiative, describing it as a meaningful way of celebrating the country’s natural beauty while showcasing Kenya to a worldwide motorsport audience.

“Vivo Energy Kenya, as the local Shell products marketer and distributor, welcomes the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team to Kenya and acknowledges the team’s befitting tribute to Kenya’s tourism product through the special rally car livery,” Murungi said.

He added that the global exposure created by the championship offers an opportunity to spotlight the country’s unique natural heritage.

“Kenya is undoubtedly the Origin of Wonder, and we appreciate the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team for bestowing us the honour to spotlight our wildlife globally as we wish the team success.”

Away from the visual spectacle, the competitive action has already begun to take shape. Belgian driver Thierry Neuville set the early pace during the Shakedown session held at the newly introduced Nawisa stage, recording the fastest time of four minutes 33.1 seconds on his final run over the 6.31-kilometre test stage.

The result placed Neuville at the top of the Shakedown standings as crews completed their final preparations for what is widely expected to be another punishing Safari Rally.

Within the Hyundai camp, Adrien Fourmaux and navigator Alexandre Coria are scheduled to lead the team’s charge when the rally gets underway, starting fourth on the road. Neuville and his co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe will begin their campaign just behind them in fifth position, while Finnish driver Esapekka Lappi and navigator Enni Mälkönen are set to start eighth.