Naveen Pulligilla and Musa Sherif make history as the first “all-Indian pair” to drive WRC
Nairobi, 23 March 2025: In a landmark achievement for Indian motorsport, driver Naveen Pulligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif have become the first “all-Indian team” to participate in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The duo competed in the iconic Safari Rally Kenya 2025, held from March 20 to 23, representing the Africa Eco Motorsport team in the WRC3 and African Rally Championship 3 (ARC3) class of this gruelling event. The duo were on the verge of completing the rally, but their luck failed as they encountered mechanical issues with just two Special Stages remaining.
Naveen Pulligilla: A Rising Star in Indian Motorsport
Hailing from Hyderabad, Naveen Pulligilla is an accomplished off-road driver with a growing reputation in the rallying community. His international experience includes participation in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship in New Zealand in 2024. Known for his precise and aggressive driving style, Naveen has been an active competitor in the Indian National Rally Championship, consistently showcasing his skill and determination on challenging terrains.
Musa Sherif: India’s Most Decorated Co-Driver
Musa Sherif, from Kasaragod, Kerala, brings over 33 years of rallying experience to the partnership. As India’s most decorated co-driver, he has participated in more than 330 rallies, including 91 international events, and has secured 10 national championship titles. Musa’s journey in motorsports began in 1993, and since then, he has become a stalwart in the field, known for his meticulous navigation skills and strategic acumen.
The Safari Rally Kenya 2025: A Formidable Challenge
The Safari Rally Kenya is renowned for its demanding terrain, unpredictable weather, and breathtaking landscapes. The 2025 edition featured 21 challenging stages, covering a competitive distance of 383.10 km within a total rally distance of 1,381.92 km. Stages such as Camp Moran, Loldia, and Hell’s Gate are particularly noted for their technical complexity and natural beauty.
Preparation and Performance
In preparation for this formidable event, Naveen and Musa underwent pre-rally testing in Indonesia with technical assistance from MRU Motorsport, Malaysia. They also conducted additional testing and reconnaissance runs in Kenya to familiarize themselves with the challenging terrain. Their goal was to finish strong and gain valuable experience on the world stage.
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
Before this achievement, Indian rally drivers like Gaurav Gill and Amittrajit Ghosh had made significant contributions to the sport. Gaurav Gill participated in the WRC with foreign co-drivers, while Amittrajit Ghosh competed in the European Rally Championship (ERC). The participation of Naveen and Musa as an all-Indian team in the WRC marks a significant milestone, paving the way for greater recognition of Indian rallying talent and inspiring more Indian drivers to compete internationally.
