By Cyber Era NG  Staff

Safaricom through its M-PESA brand has today announced a KES 3 million(US$ 25,356)  sponsorship deal for the inaugural rallycross competition scheduled for this weekend at the newly launched racing track in Machakos.

Organised by RX Motorcross, the event is part of plans to introduce a rallycross championship series which will feature several events throughout the year.

“We are glad to have Safaricom through our M-PESA platform being part of this unique event. For years, we have been part of the motorsports journey in the country, from the Kenya National Rally Championships, East Africa Classic Rally to the WRC Safari Rally. Most recently we have supported young upcoming drivers through the FIA Rally Star Programme and we are excited to have some of them take part this weekend as they look to refine their skills even further”, said CEO Safaricom, Peter Ndegwa.

Rallycross is a combination of rallying and circuit racing and includes head-to-head short, sharp races on mixed surfaces. The competition involves up to eight cars at a time, which go wheel-to-wheel on a circuit that is part asphalt and part gravel or loose surface, with the winner being the quickest to complete the required number of laps. The races are usually short, lasting a maximum of three minutes and events often comprise of 60 separate races.

“We are looking forward to a fun-packed and exciting racing weekend in Machakos and we welcome Safaricom’s sponsorship which will go a long way in ensuring that we have a successful event. We urge spectators to turn up in large numbers to witness a truly unique event”, said Tundo

The event has drawn a field of four teams made up of 16 drivers of all ages, including reigning African Rally Champion Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo, Baldev Chager and Alistair Cavenagh who will drive alongside several young drivers like Maxine Wahome, Jeremy Wahome and Hamza Anwar.