Kenyan rally driver Pauline Sheghu saw her hopes of competing on the final day of the Safari Rally Kenya dashed after her rally car’s windscreen and side windows were vandalised, forcing her to retire from Sunday’s action.

The heartbreaking incident cut short what had been a determined performance in the national classification at the gruelling round of the World Rally Championship (WRC).

According to Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) rally regulations, a car with significant windscreen or window damage cannot be allowed to continue due to strict safety requirements.

A damaged windscreen poses a serious risk at high speeds, as it could shatter and send debris into the cockpit, potentially endangering both the driver and co-driver while navigating the demanding gravel stages.

FIA rules also require that drivers maintain a clear field of vision. If damage occurs within the driver’s direct line of sight — commonly known as Zone A — the car is automatically deemed unsafe and cannot be cleared to continue in the rally.

Driving a Subaru Impreza WRX STI alongside co-driver Linet Ayuko, Sheghu had posted a cumulative time of 5:15:53.9 and was running seventh in the national classification before the vandalism brought her rally to an abrupt end.

In a statement, an emotional Sheghu expressed her disappointment at missing the final day of competition.

“It is very painful and unfortunate that we cannot finish today’s rally because of the reckless actions of some kids who broke our windscreen and side windows. What was supposed to be a beautiful rally for us has ended in tears,” she said.

Sheghu revealed that the incident occurred near the Eburu section of the rally stages.

“We gave this rally our all and tried our best to complete every stage, but yesterday around Eburu, some kids decided that stoning rally cars was their talent, not knowing the damage and heartbreak they would cause,” she added.

The driver emphasised that rallying is already an extremely demanding sport that relies heavily on the goodwill and support of fans along the stages.

“It hurts even more because this sport needs support, not destruction. We came with passion, sacrifice and determination, but we are going home with broken windows and broken hearts,” she lamented.

Despite the setback, Sheghu responded with grace, leaving the matter in faith.

“We leave everything in God’s hands. May God forgive them, because the pain they have caused us is too much,” she said.

She also thanked the fans, partners and sponsors who supported her throughout the rally.