Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif on podium at 2026 Safari Rally Kenya

Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif secured a podium finish at the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya, which formed the third round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The Indian duo finished in third position in the WRC3 category while also earning a second place finish in the African ARC3 category. Puligilla and Sherif finished the rally in 24th position overall.

Naveen who recently became the INRC 3T champion in the Indian National Rally Championship for 2025, drove a Ford Fiesta Rally3 in the Safari Rally which was prepped by Africa Eco Motorsport from Nairobi. Across the 20 Special Stages which were spread over 338.34 competitive kilometres, Naveen displayed remarkable composure and reflected on the podium finish by saying, “To stand on the WRC3 podium at the Safari Rally is incredibly special. This rally demands respect. It’s not just about speed but survival, discipline, and teamwork. Representing India on this stage makes it even more meaningful.” Naveen’s co-driver, Musa Sherif added that precision and experience were key to navigating the rally’s unpredictability, even during changing weather threats.

In November 2025, the Indian duo of Naveen and Musa made rallying history as they became the first Indian driver and co-driver pair to finish on the podium in a WRC event at the WRC Rally Saudi Arabia.