JP Nicolas: Corsica, a complex rally

After a break in 2010, the Tour de Corse is back on the French motorsport calendar. No longer in the framework of the World Rally Championship, but in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. Nicknamed “The Rally of the 1000 turns", this event is one of the most demanding, as explained by Jean-Pierre Nicolas, winner on Alpine A110 in 1973 with Michel Vial.

“More and more Corsican roads have been resurfaced, underlines the man who now works in the engine department for the IRC. The coating is therefore less variable than in the past. But you always pass on different types of asphalt throughout the event, with significant changes in grip. The weather is also a factor that should not be neglected. When you participate in this rally, you have to be attentive and be prepared for everything, a bit like Monte Carlo. With this year's route, we will revisit legendary special stages. The challenge is different now, but it is no less complex. »

The French round of the IRC begins Thursday morning.

Follow the Tour de Corse, third round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, live on AUTOhebdo.fr.