Vivo Energy Kenya, the distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels and services in the country, has announced the sponsorship of seven rally drivers who will compete in the 2026 Shell Autocross Series and the highly anticipated World Rally Championship Safari Rally Kenya 2026 scheduled for March 12–15 in Naivasha.
The drivers set to benefit from the sponsorship include Tinashe Gatimu and navigator Caroline Gatimu; Rajveer Thethy and Laban Cliff Onserio; Lisa Christoffersen and Christabel Wacuka; Neel Gohil and Wayne Fernandez; Michuki Hinga and Mwangi Kioni; Ishmael Azeli and John Ngugi; and Suleiman Munyua.
According to the company, the selected drivers represent the passion, skill and resilience that define competitive rallying. Their participation in the Shell Autocross Series will provide a platform to sharpen their skills while preparing them to take on one of the most demanding rallies on the global motorsport calendar.
The sponsorship was officially unveiled at the Shell Northview service station along Thika Road in Nairobi. Speaking during the event, Patrick Masinde, Retail Manager at Vivo Energy Kenya, said the initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to nurturing talent and supporting communities.
“This sponsorship aligns with our commitment to creating long-term value for our communities. By investing in these drivers, we are supporting and nurturing Kenya’s finest talent to rise and compete on the global stage,” he said.
Shell’s involvement in motorsport spans decades and has played a key role in advancing automotive innovation and performance. Globally, the energy brand has maintained a technical partnership with Scuderia Ferrari in Formula One for more than 75 years and also collaborates closely with Hyundai Motorsport in the FIA World Rally Championship.
Beyond global partnerships, Shell continues to strengthen Kenya’s motorsport landscape through local initiatives. The company is also the title sponsor of the upcoming Motorsports Excellence Awards set to take place later this month, further reinforcing its role in promoting emerging drivers and supporting the growth of the country’s motorsport ecosystem.
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