Dumas, Latvala, Lucky… a choice plateau in the Costa Brava

If reading the list of entrants makes your mouth water, there is still a small regret. This comes from the regulations. Indeed, if cars dating from 2000 can now run in Historic, it was decided that the competitors could not appear in the classification and that they would not score points. The approach is understandable. By setting these barriers, the decision-makers want to avoid an arms race. They believe that we must wait a little longer before seeing the drivers rush towards Kit-Cars (Xsara, Megane, 306) or the first WRC (Escort, Subaru…).

This competition already goes far enough in terms of preparation and quality of equipment without it becoming crazy. The limit was therefore set at 1993, knowing that in the years to come this limit will give way and that some very beautiful cars will appear. While waiting for this change, this limit has notably curbed the ardor of Simon Jean-Joseph. The Martinican wanted to race with a Subaru Impreza accompanied by Yannick Roche, but he chose to withdraw, because he did not want to come just to make up the numbers. In his famous deep voice, he nevertheless warned: " It's only a postponement... » His absence combined with that of Julien Saunier, the 2024 winner, opens the door to an uncertain event.

Latvala favourite in the rain?

With his No. 1, Jari-Matti Latvala appears to be the one with the best chances. With the most substantial track record in rally, the Finn will lead a Toyota 4WD Celica which should be well suited to the weather forecast. It is expected to rain for three days which will not suit the Porsche Romain Dumas' 911 Carrera, fewer BMW M3s than in 2024, or Seb's Lancia Stratos Perez and “Tony”.

In addition to Latvala, the Lancia Delta of "Lucky" with the ever-passionate Fabrizia Pons, the Audi Quattro of Tobias Johansson and several Subaru Legacys will try to take advantage of their all-wheel drive to stand out from the crowd. Celebrating the Lancia 037 in tribute to Miki Biasion's victory at the Costa Brava in 1985 (10 cars should be exhibited and Biasion should be present), the organizers will welcome 20 different nationalities, with Argentina, Uruguay and Antigua and Barbuda being some of the originals.

Around sixty French drivers will cross the border for the occasion, including Richard Genesca (Subaru Legacy), Richard Kollé (Porsche), Philippe Mermet (R5 Turbo), Eric Guignard (R5 Turbo), but also the Canavese family, Patrick (Clio Maxi) and Clément (Lancia Delta)… In the lower classes, Philippe “Vaness” will abandon his legendary orange 104 ZS for a 106 XSi. That should be a big change… Among the other names that rally fans will not fail to spot, there is also “Tilber” to the right of Jean-Michel Villot, the Portuguese Rui Madeira (Mitsubishi Lancer) and the Spaniard Manuel Muniente (BMW M3).

Competitors who are fighting for victory against the clock will have 13 special stages and 151,28 km to do so.

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