Var, Stage 1: Camilli in the lead, Loeb lurking behind Bonato

First leader of rally After his fastest time in SS1, Eric Camilli (i20 N Rally2-2C Compétition) saw Hugo Margaillan (i20 N Rally2-CHL Sport Auto), the local driver, take the lead in the early afternoon. Unfortunately, Margaillan was forced to retire on the road leading to the seventh special stage.

Consistent throughout an intense and tricky second loop, Eric Camilli, co-driven by Thibault de la Haye, finished the first day just 1,4 seconds ahead of Yoann Bonato (C3 Rally2-Trajectus Motorsport). These small gaps are becoming the norm for the two main contenders in the French Rally Championship.
Efficient and, above all, patient, Sébastien Loeb (A110 GT-P-GL Automobiles Service Compétition) had to wait until SS8 to set its first fastest time of the weekend. The Alsatian driver is currently third on the podium, less than 2,5 seconds behind the leader. "I did what I could! Honestly, it's going really well, the competition is fierce." Loeb noted at the end of this first stage.

Nothing is done yet!

Sébastien Loeb-Laurène Godey ©Gregory Lenormand/DPPI

Raphaël Astier (A110 GT-P-CHL Sport Auto) has lost some ground and is 8 seconds behind third place at the end of this first day.

The battle for a top-five finish between Réhane Gany (C3 Rally2-CHL Sport Auto) and Mathieu Franceschi (Fabia RS Rally2-AMD Motorsport) promises to be intense on the second leg. Eliott Delecour (i20 N Rally2-CHL Sport Auto) is also well-positioned, lying in wait.

Six special stages, including the legendary Faron, are on the program for the 95,44 km scheduled for the second leg. See you tomorrow morning from 8:48 am.

Provisional classification of the 1st stage