The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the highly anticipated 2024 WRC Safari Rally Kenya, the third leg of the FIA World Rally Championship, draws near.

The WRC 2024 is scheduled to take place from March 28 to 31 in Naivasha.

WRC has promised rally fans around the globe high-speed action and fierce competition.

With an impressive lineup of 29 entries comprising top contenders from across the world, anticipation for the rally has reached fever pitch.

Several foreign drivers have already arrived in Kenya, eager to tackle the challenging terrain and compete for glory in one of motorsport's most revered events.

Among them is Frenchman Adrien Fourmax of M-Sport Ford, who finds himself enthralled by the striking contrasts between Kenya's climate and landscape and his native France.

"First I need to get used to the temperature here. It's very hot, obviously, compared to what we have in France," he said.

"I need to get used to it, and the landscape is completely different. So, yeah, quite a shock now, but a nice experience. It's quite different from what we have in Europe but it's always interesting to discover something new," Fourmax observed.

Championship leader from the Hyundai Shell Mobis team Thierry Neuville exuded a mix of excitement and anticipation as he looks forward to the challenges ahead.

"We had a good kick-off of the season as we are leading still the championship. Coming here to Kenya now, much earlier in the season, we are looking forward to the race," he said.

"We know it's a windy season as well, so it's going to be probably a different challenge than what we have seen in the previous years. But it's always exciting to be here and it's some kind of adventure and much different than all the other rallies," Neuville said.

Elfyn Evans, known for his composed demeanour, emphasised the importance of preparation while maintaining a calm and focused attitude.

"Of course, we try and always arrive as prepared as we can. We have to find the balance between being prepared and relaxed so nothing new for us," he said.

The Safari Rally Kenya is renowned for its challenging terrain and demanding conditions.

The untamed terrain offers drivers the ultimate test of endurance, including mud, rocks, fesh-fesh sand and challenging water crossings.

WRC said in a statement this year's edition promises to uphold its legacy, offering drivers and spectators an unparalleled experience filled with thrills and excitement.

Preparations for the event are currently in full swing, with organizers and teams working tirelessly to ensure everything is in place.

Among the many aspects being attended to include the Service Park which has already been erected.

The World Rally Championship is an international rallying series owned and governed by the FIA.

Inaugurated in 1973, it is the second oldest of the FIA's world championships after Formula One.

Each season lasts one calendar year, and separate championship titles are awarded to drivers, co-drivers and manufacturers.

The Safari Rally Kenya marks the third round of the 2024 World Rally Championships, following Rallye Monte and Rally Sweden in January and February respectively.