KCB's Karan Patel focused on clinching Burundi Rally

Karan Patel in a past rally action. [Courtesy]

Reigning African Rally Champion Karan Patel will be clashing with top guns at the Rallye International du Burundi from September 20-22,- the third leg of the 2024 African Rally Championship.

The KCB Racing Team driver will be navigated by his long-time friend Tauseef Khan in their Skoda R5 car.

The duo intend to extend their impressive start to the season by winning a third race after clinching Uganda and Zambia's rallies respectively.

Commenting ahead of the showdown, Karan said: "It will be our second time out in Burundi and we are looking forward to having a good event. We managed to finish in first position last year so definitely we intend to maintain the same although with rallying, nothing is guaranteed. We are preparing well, myself keeping fit and the car is under close watch by our team manager ensuring that we are ready for the race."

The continental showpiece is expected to traverse four countries after events held in Uganda and Zambia - Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda and Kenya are still yet to host their competitions.

"Jas Mangat of Uganda is always a threat with his prowess and speed behind the wheels but, we are ready to take on him and other top drivers who have always been part and parcel of this event. Our intention is to continue sitting at the summit of the current leaderboard to showcase our passion, commitment and might in this sport," added Patel.

Rally5-Kit cars, which can be homologated at local level in collaboration with the FIA Technical Department, are permitted for ARC action. The exciting move will allow the use of parts and expertise available locally to deliver more cost-effective competition cars.

Unlike last year, Rallye Cote d'Ivoire Bandama won't host the ARC in 2024 in line with a cost-focused calendar, having run as the 2023 season opener.