Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif to Make History at WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025

Synopsis

Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif are set to become the first all-Indian team in the WRC at the Safari Rally Kenya 2025. Competing in the WRC3 ARC3 class, this event promises to be a challenging experience for the duo from March 20 to 23.

Key Takeaways

Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif are the first all-Indian team in WRC.
They will compete in the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025.
The rally features 21 stages over a distance of 383.10 km.
Both drivers are experienced and active in the Indian National Rally Championship.
This participation aims to promote Indian rallying on a global stage.

Nairobi, March 12 (NationPress) Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif are poised to make history as the inaugural all-Indian team at the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025, scheduled to take place from March 20 to 23. Racing for the Africa Eco Motorsport team, the pair will participate in the WRC3 ARC3 class (African Rally Championship), tackling one of the most challenging events on the WRC calendar.

Set in Naivasha, Kenya, the rally will encompass 21 demanding stages over a total competitive distance of 383.10 km, culminating in an overall rally distance of 1381.92 km, which will truly test their endurance and skills.

“The Safari Rally is one of the toughest challenges in motorsport, but we are ready for the grind. Our objective is to finish strong and gain invaluable experience,” stated co-driver Musa Sherif.

“This is a dream realized. Competing in the WRC Safari Rally is a tremendous honour, and we are eager to display the capabilities of Indian rallying,” remarked driver Naveen Pulligilla, who recently completed pre-rally testing in Indonesia in a Rally3 car, supported by MRU Motorsport from Malaysia.

Pulligilla, a skilled off-road driver from Hyderabad, participated in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship in New Zealand the previous year. His co-driver, Musa Sherif, hails from Kasargod and is recognized as India’s most accomplished co-driver, boasting over 33 years of experience, ten national championship titles, and participation in 331 rallies, including 91 international events.

Both drivers are active participants in the Indian National Rally Championship. Naveen’s precise and aggressive driving style, paired with Musa’s extensive navigation and strategic experience, lays the groundwork for a significant Indian representation in the WRC.

The 2025 Safari Rally Kenya, recognized as the third round of the WRC season, is famous for its tough terrain, unpredictable weather, and stunning landscapes. The rally will feature stages like Camp Moran, Loldia, and Hell’s Gate, known for their technical intricacies and natural beauty.

This groundbreaking participation signifies a proud chapter for Indian motorsport. “We hope it opens doors for greater acknowledgment of Indian rallying talent and inspires more Indians to race on international platforms,” concluded Naveen and Musa.