With an ambition to support all sports across Kenya, SportPesa announced the sponsorship of six-time Kenyan National Rally Champion, Leonardo Varese.

Varese is one of Kenya’s best-known rally drivers, with decades of experience competing in local and regional races.

Varese has won multiple Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) class titles in the Kenyan National Rally Championship. He was crowned the winner in 2008, 2010, 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2022 – making him one of the most decorated Kenyan athletes in the sport.

Varese credited SportPesa for making his achievements possible: “For my co-driver and myself, winning two out of two events is truly not a mean achievement. Big up to our sponsors SportPesa who made it all happen,” Varese told KBC.

Supporting African motorsports

Rally driving is a popular sport in Kenya, following the launch of the Safari Rally. This event – known for its dramatic moments – is a national spectacle, and a staple in the World Rally Championship calendar.

Varese has taken part in the iconic Safari Rally, and while he hasn’t taken home a trophy yet, he is one of Kenya’s most respected drivers with multiple 2WD category wins under his belt.

Through this sponsorship, SportPesa demonstrates its commitment to diversifying sports investment beyond football, ensuring that athletes in disciplines like motorsport have the resources to compete at the highest level. Empowering talent and elevating sport are integral parts of the SportPesa brand.