The title is played at Var

The eighth and final round of the French rally championship takes place from today to Sunday around Sainte-Maxime. With 205 committed and an exceptional field, the 57th Rally du Var promises to be explosive, with four competitors still in the race for the title of French champion: Gilles Nantet (Porsche 997 GT+), Eric Brunson (Subaru Impreza WRC), Dany Snobeck (Citroën C4 WRC) and Pierre Roché (Peugeot 307 WRC).

But the headliners are to be found among the many distinguished guests who will start this event, starting with the “openers” Jean Ragnotti and Daniel Elena, at the controls of a Citroën DS3 R3. The WRC will also be represented with the two Ford Fiesta WRCs of Jari-Matti Latvala and?Ott Tänak who come to prepare for the next Monte-Carlo rally. Also present but unable to score points, Pierre Campana will complete his 2011 program aboard the Drive-Pro team's Mini John Cooper Works. Two official Peugeot drivers will be at the start, Bryan Bouffier in his 207 S2000 and Stéphane Sarrazin who will line up at the wheel of a 307 WRC. Finally, let's not forget the winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2010, Romain Dumas, who enters his Porsche 997 GT+: “ I wasn't supposed to ride here but when I saw the list of first entrants, I decided to come. The level is very high and we can expect a lot to happen. After three retirements, my goal will be above all to be at the finish of the Rallye du Var this time! »

In addition to the Drivers' title, the Teams and Junior titles will be awarded at the end of this championship final.

Find in your AUTOhebdo magazine n°1833, on newsstands next Wednesday, the complete analysis of the closing round of the French Rally Championship by our special correspondent in Ste Maxime.