With the highly anticipated 2023 World Rally Championships (WRC) Safari Rally just days away in Naivasha, local drivers are making their final preparations for the prestigious event. Among them, rally drivers Joe Kariuki and Gerald Maina have received a significant boost in their preparations with sponsorship from local sports betting firm Bangsports for their two cars.
The sponsorship from Bangsports holds immense importance for Kariuki and Maina, as it significantly eases the financial burden associated with participating in the WRC Safari Rally. Kariuki, who recently acquired his Subaru Impreza N10 Prodrive car, expressed his gratitude for Bangsports’s support.
“Taking part in the Safari Rally is very expensive, and it means a lot that Bangsports has come on board to sponsor us. I don’t think I could have done a lot by myself,” Kariuki stated. Under the sponsorship deal, Bangsports will fund their preparations, including equipment and branding, relieving the drivers of financial concerns.
For Maina, the opportunity to compete in this year’s WRC Safari Rally seemed uncertain until Bangsports stepped in as their sponsor. Maina, who will be driving a Subaru N10 car, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the support they have received. This sponsorship has not only provided them with financial aid but has also given them a renewed sense of hope and determination to perform well in the upcoming event.
The significance of this sponsorship deal becomes even more apparent when considering the background of Bangsports’s CEO, Leo. Leo has an impressive 10-year experience in the WRC Rally and has achieved several accolades and successes throughout his career. It is his own passion for rallying and his desire to leave a legacy that has fueled his commitment to supporting young, emerging talent in the sport. By sponsoring drivers like Kariuki and Maina, Leo aims to provide them with the opportunities and resources needed to excel on a global platform.
Kariuki, who has competed in the WRC for the past six years, including an eighth-place finish in his category last year, expresses confidence in his performance this year. He highlights the upgrade in his car, transitioning from a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 9 to a Subaru Impreza N10 Prodrive, which he considers a superior vehicle with remarkable performance. While Kariuki acknowledges the learning curve associated with the new car, he is optimistic about his prospects in the rally.
Looking ahead to the competition, Kariuki emphasizes the importance of enjoying the experience and approaching it with a positive mindset. He believes that overthinking the potential outcomes can hinder performance and instead encourages a focus on having fun while giving their best. Finishing the rally well would be a satisfactory outcome for him.
As the WRC Safari Rally draws closer, the sponsorship provided by Bangsports has not only alleviated financial burdens but has also instilled hope and confidence in these young drivers. CEO Leo’s personal experience and success in the WRC Rally have fueled his dedication to supporting emerging talent, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport. With the backing of Bangsports, Kariuki, and Maina are ready to showcase their skills and passion on the global stage of the WRC Safari Rally, aspiring to make a mark in the rally racing world.