Yves Deflandre and Jennifer Hugo (Porsche 911) emerged as the strongest competitors in the 18th edition of the Rally de Portugal Histórico, which concluded early Saturday morning in Sintra after 1,868 kilometers of competition across various regions of the country. The Belgian driver extended his record number of wins in the event organized by the Automóvel Club de Portugal, with Spaniards Marcos Adan and Adolfo Almuiña (Peugeot 205 GTi) securing second place, ahead of Frenchman Christophe Baillet and Belgian Jean-Marc Piret (Porsche 911 SC).
Withstanding all challenges, Deflandre and Hugo capitalized on their experience, precision, and the reliability of their No. 24 Porsche 911, claiming their third consecutive victory in the Rally de Portugal Histórico and the fifth overall for the Belgian driver, further solidifying his record of wins in the event. Simultaneously, this marked the 13th victory for a 911 model in the Portuguese rally, including 11 consecutive wins!
"It was a very unique edition, due to the tough weather, reminding me of Belgium! The road conditions were tricky, and it required a lot of focus on various types of terrain. This remains one of the most beautiful rallies in the world, even without sunshine!" said Deflandre after the famous 'night' in Sintra, which once again provided a stunning conclusion to the Rally de Portugal Histórico.
From Ourense to Sintra
Spaniards Marcos Adan and Adolfo Almuiña emerged as the primary challengers to Deflandre and Hugo during yesterday’s stage, driving their small but well-prepared 1990 Peugeot 205 GTi. The duo from Ourense managed to hold onto second place until the final control in Sintra.
Paulo Marques and João Martins aimed for a third consecutive Portuguese podium finish in the event (following in the footsteps of Luís Cavaco/João Serôdio and Piero dal Maso/Sancho Ramalho), but physical problems for the co-driver of their BMW 1600 during the final stage allowed Frenchman Christophe Baillet (winner of the 2021 event) to secure the podium in Sintra, alongside Belgian Jean-Marc Piret (Porsche 911 SC).
Special mention goes to the top Portuguese team, Luís Carvalho and Sancho Ramalho, who finished sixth in their 1970 BMW 2002. "The weather conditions were tough, but we started strong and managed the circumstances well. I love driving, I’m here for the sport, and I hope to return next year," said Luís Carvalho.
In the standings for the Rally de Portugal Histórico Trophy, the French duo of Eric Lataste and Daniel Trevisanut claimed victory with one of the oldest cars in the event, a 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint.