Yoann Bonato in the lead at the Rallye du Var

Yoann Bonato (Citroën C3 R5) concluded the first stage of the Rally du Var by having a solid lead over their opponents. Dominated by Sylvain Michel (Skoda Fabia R5) in the first two special stages of the event contested in particularly wet conditions, the double reigning French champion took advantage of the leader's exit from the road in SS3 to seize the race controls.

It was in the 4th and last special of the day that Yoann Bonato built a significant lead as he returned to the service park with almost half a minute ahead of Stéphane Sarrazin (Hyundai i20 R5), its closest pursuer.

The provisional podium is completed by Bryan Bouffier (Hyundai i20 R5) who is one minute from the lead of the race, having a handful of seconds ahead of Laurent Pellier (Citroën C3 R5), Nikolay Gryazin (Skoda Fabia R5), the new Hope Exhaust Adrien fourmaux (Ford Fiesta R5), William Wagner (Ford Fiesta R5) and Quentin Gilbert (Skoda Fabia R5). Jean-Baptiste Franceschi (Skoda Fabia R5) and Mathieu Arzeno (Skoda Fabia R5) complete the Top 10 in the general classification ahead of Pierre Roché (Skoda) and Éric Mauffrey (Skoda).

Among the retirements, Quentin Giordano (Hyundai) gave up before the start of the last course of the day due to health concerns (nausea), while Raphaël Astier (Abarth 124 Rally) dismounted following mechanical problems.

The crews still in the race are now preparing to face the longest stage since 7 special stages will be on the program this Saturday. The race will continue on Sunday with 3 more courses to tackle.

A summary of the Rallye du Var, 9th and final round of the French Rally Championship, will be broadcast this Sunday at 17:35 p.m. on Canal+ Sport.