KCB racing team driver Nikhil Sachania and his navigator Deep Patel have assured motorsports fans that they will continue rallying despite their Mitsubishi Evolution X crashing at the just concluded 2024 WRC Safari Rally.
The pair said they will upgrade their car to a better version that can compete with the top boys in the competitions to come.
Speaking after the crash in Kedong, Navigator Deep Patel said: “We started the race on the right footing right from yesterday’s Kasarani Super Special Stage transitioning to today. Loldia was rocky and rutty but we maneuvered. We were flying in Kedong before we lost our brakes and eventually crashed. I assure our fans that we will be back soon.”
The duo is part of the KCB-sponsored drivers alongside reigning African Rally Champion Karan Patel navigated by his longtime friend Tauseef Khan.
On his part, Paraplegic rally driver Nikhil Sachania hinted at switching cars and making a comeback in the local races.
“It is unfortunate that we had to drop out of the race but I am certain that we will be back racing soon. We are exploring options to see which car to go for. I can confirm that we will participate in local and we will be back in next year’s Safari Rally action,” noted Nikhil.
KCB Bank Kenya is the official financial partner for the four-day action packed weekend that saw local and international drivers grace the grueling Loldia, Geothermal and Kedong stages.
Finish driver Kalle Rovanpera racked up his second win of the WRC Safari rally title ahead of Toyota Gazoo Racing team-mate Takamoto Katsuta of Japan who finished second while Frenchman Adrien Fourmaux racing under Ford settled for third place.