Jordan Berfa wins in Lloret de Mar, Genesca 3rd

As is often the case, the French, and more specifically those from the south of France, were out in force last weekend on the Catalan coast for a very popular event at the start of the year: the Rally Lloret de Mar, held in the renowned seaside resort. 2017 French Gravel Rally Champion Jordan Berfa, co-driven for the occasion by Kevin Mendrico, took the victory in his Hyundai i20N R5. Despite the intense heat that has since gone viral on social media, the driver from the Tarn region remained composed, securing victory ahead of local rivals Toni Fornié and Patricia Saiz (Škoda Fabia R5). Another French crew also reached the podium, with Arnaud Genesca from Perpignan, driving his Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, finishing third, co-driven by Valentin Augé. A total of 104 crews started the event, including many French teams who took advantage of the opportunity to compete in a... rally asphalt with pleasant weather conditions for February.

The French in good form in Lloret de Mar

Berfa and Mendrico were never truly challenged during this rally. Taking the lead from the very first stage, where they set the fastest time, the two men increased their advantage as the rally progressed. Behind them, the crews competing in their respective local championships battled fiercely to close the gap and score as many points as possible in their respective quests. But it had to be said that Berfa was on another level last weekend. Other French drivers also distinguished themselves on the Costa Brava: Pierre Vonic finished 9th in a Hyundai i20N Rally2, and Gérald Urreizti placed his venerable Renault Clio Williams Denis Ridel, ranked twelfth in the hierarchy, climbed to 15th position in the final standings. Peugeot 106 S16.

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