Kenyan autocross surges with record 50+ entries at Stoni Athi

Machakos County, Kenya — 2025-09-06 EAT.

Round 5 of the Tai Racing/Shell 2025 Autocross & Autocross Plus Championship returns to Stoni Athi this weekend, featuring over 50 competitors—the highest since 2015.

The Latest

• Over 50 drivers have registered—the highest turnout in more than a decade—for Saturday–Sunday’s event at Stoni Athi Resort & Ranch. 

• This marks a revival after a dip caused by regulatory wrangles in 2024. 

Context in Brief

• The newly formed 254 Motorsports Club is credited with reviving the sport by lowering fees, simplifying entry, and adopting a grassroots model. 

• The event also features both veterans and fresh talent fueling the renaissance. 

Law, Policy, and Process

• Not directly applicable.

• The initiative reflects broader efforts to democratize access to motorsport beyond the Safari Rally spotlight.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Clerk of the Course Muqsit Hussain: Explained the two-day format, proximity to Nairobi, and open entry policy as key to the strong field. 

• Organisers (254 Motorsports Club): Introduced longer rally-style stages and grassroots incentives to revive participation. 

Evidence & Data

• Number of entries: 50+ drivers, highest in over 10 years. 

• Participants noted: Karan Patel, Nikhil Sachania, Baldev Chagger, Asad Anwar, Eric Bengi, Hamza Anwar. Young drivers like Michuki Hinga and Adriano Varese also feature. 

Risks and Implications

• Sporting momentum: Revival may translate into demand for a formal motorsport federation (Motorsport Kenya).

• Governance: Organisers aim to institutionalize structure and access.

• Visibility: Local grassroots movement may build broader interest beyond headline rally events.

What We Don’t Know Yet

• Will this surge be sustained beyond Round 5?

• When will Motorsport Kenya be officially registered?

• How will sponsorships evolve in coming seasons?

• Are there plans to expand rural/regional autocross events?

• Will television or streaming coverage follow the revival?

Timeline

• 2024: Motorsport struggles amid regulatory issues.

• Early 2025: 254 Motorsports Club formed and begins grassroots efforts. 

• 2025-09-06: Round 5 kicks off at Stoni Athi with record entries. 

What to Watch

• Registration of Motorsport Kenya as a formal body.

• Sponsorship growth beyond Shell, Tai Racing, CFAO, JCB Ganatra, Go Sport.

• Media coverage reach and future event attendance.

• Performance of young talent vs veterans.

• Expansion of grassroots-style autocross across counties.