Photo Credit:Reuters
The FIA has responded to complaints made by World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers following a string of controversial decisions and safety concerns during the 2025 Safari Rally Kenya. The rally, run in the challenging terrain of Naivasha, drew criticism from top drivers after red flag stoppages, redistributions of times, and low visibility impacted results and raised issues of safety.
The principal controversy concerned a red flag waved on Saturday’s Stage 15. Thierry Neuville’s Hyundai had a technical problem and brought a roadblock, so officials brought the stage to a halt. But time allocations to drivers that followed were extremely controversial. Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä, for example, were vocal in expressing their displeasure, claiming the revised stage times disproportionately affected their standings.
Ogier criticized the manner in which it had been conducted, stating that “time compensation must be consistent and transparent. At the moment, it appears there’s too much guesswork.” Elfyn Evans seconded his views, adding to his words that there was not much transparency in the red flag process and that it distorted competitive fairness.
In addition, the drivers complained about overall safety matters, namely the excessive amount of dust that severely lowered visibility. A number of crews had close calls with limited view areas, with some of them asking for procedural changes under such conditions. “It’s not about competition—it’s about safety,” commented Rovanperä following the rally.
In response, the FIA issued a statement of acknowledgment of the issues and a commitment to having a comprehensive review. A task force will be established to assess the red flag procedure, time compensation methods, and general safety procedures in adverse weather conditions like at Safari Rally.
“The FIA is listening,” said WRC Sporting Director Andrew Wheatley. “We are conscious of the issues raised by the drivers and will consider pertinent sporting regulations to ensure that they address both the requirements for fairness and for security at our events.”
The controlling body also emphasized its determination to consult directly with teams and drivers before implementing any regulations. Discussions are to be had before the next event of the WRC in Portugal.
Though the FIA response has been taken as a good step, it is most that highlight actual change must happen—and not just threats. Under growing pressure, the WRC world now waits and sees if the FIA makes actual reforms happen.
