Safari Rally Shock: Toyota Hit by Triple Blow, Leaderboard in Chaos
Sports Updated: 14 March 2026 14:34 EAT
Drivers battle through a muddy section at Elementaita stage, sliding and powering through the slippery track during day 3 of the WRC 2026 Safari Rally Kenya.
Toyota Gazoo Racing suffered a dramatic setback on Saturday at the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya as three of its star drivers — Oliver Solberg, Sébastien Ogier, and Elfyn Evans — were forced to retire due to mechanical problems, sending shockwaves through the standings.
Rally leader Solberg, who had dominated the event since Thursday, lost his lead after an alternator failure, ending his hopes of securing victory in one of the WRC’s toughest events.
Defending champion Evans faced misfortune when he struck a hidden rock, damaging his car’s rear wheel and forcing him to bow out of Saturday’s remaining stages.
Ogier, the nine‑time world champion, also succumbed to alternator issues, leaving Toyota without its primary contenders for the day.
Takamoto Katsuta now carries the Toyota banner, positioned third overall, while Hyundai drivers, including Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmaux, have moved up the leaderboard, taking advantage of Toyota’s woes.
Toyota team deputy principal Juha Kankkunen confirmed that Solberg, Ogier, and Evans would restart under rally regulations on Sunday to chase points despite their retirements.
The rugged terrain around Naivasha and Lake Elmenteita, infamous for hidden rocks and unpredictable conditions, once again proved why the Safari Rally is considered one of the most grueling events on the WRC calendar.
Hyundai and other rivals have capitalised on Toyota’s misfortunes, posting consistent stage times and climbing the rankings as the rally enters its final stretch.
With two days remaining, Toyota remains in contention for points, but Saturday’s triple blow has handed momentum to competitors and thrown the race wide open.
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FELIX MAKONA
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