Kenyan photographer Mwangi Kirubi has made history after winning Gold in the Motor Sports category at the World Sports Photography Awards 2026, becoming the first Kenyan to achieve the milestone.
The award, announced on January 15, followed a global judging process that attracted thousands of entries from more than 100 countries. Kirubi’s winning image, titled Emerging Ford, was captured during the Shakedown stage of the WRC Safari Rally at Sleeping Warrior.
The photograph freezes rally drivers Grégoire Munster and Louis Louka charging through Kenya’s iconic fesh fesh dust, creating a powerful visual that reflects the raw intensity of the Safari Rally.
Kirubi, popularly known as Mwarv, has consistently covered the Safari Rally since its return to the World Rally Championship calendar. His experience at the Shakedown stage allowed him to experiment with angles and timing, resulting in the award-winning moment.
The victory places Kenya firmly on the global sports photography map and highlights the growing international recognition of local creative talent.
