Hyderabad-based rally driver Naveen Puligilla, alongside co-driver Musa Sherif, secured third place in the WRC3 category at the Safari Rally Kenya 2026, the third round of the FIA World Rally Championship. The Indian duo also finished second in the African ARC3 class.
Competing in one of the most challenging rallies globally, they recorded a total time of 5 hours, 22 minutes, and 17.9 seconds, finishing 24th overall in a common field that included higher-class cars.
The team faced harsh conditions such as rocky terrain, deep ruts, unpredictable weather, and the distinctive African fesh-fesh dust that tests both machine and driver.
This achievement adds to Naveen’s rising international rally career. Following his historic WRC3 podium at Rally Saudi Arabia in 2025, he has demonstrated consistency at the highest level of rallying. According to the release, his performance in Kenya showcased speed, maturity, endurance, and strategic driving.
Driving a Ford Fiesta Rally3 prepared by Africa Eco Sports Nairobi, Naveen, who was recently crowned the INRC 3T Indian champion for 2025, exhibited composure across 20 special stages covering 338.34 competitive kilometres.
Reflecting on the accomplishment, Naveen said, “To stand on the WRC3 podium at Safari Rally is incredibly special. This rally demands respect. It’s not just about speed but survival, discipline, and teamwork. Representing India and Hyderabad on this stage makes it even more meaningful. We pushed when it mattered, stayed patient when we had to, and this result is a reward for the entire team’s effort.”
Co-driver Musa Sherif added that precision and experience were crucial in navigating the rally’s unpredictability, including changing weather conditions.
