Arai chasing Hungary IRC glory for Subaru

Toshi Arai will make his third start in the new-for-2011 IRC Production Cup aboard his Yokohama-backed R4-specification Subaru Impreza when he tackles the Canon Mecsek Rallye from 9-11 September.

While the Japanese is regarded as a rapid performer, he will face strong opposition for category honours from several local drivers including Ralliart Lancer pair György Aschenbrenner, who competes under the pseudonym ‘ASI’ and Miklós Kázar, currently second in the Hungarian championship chase.

András Hadik will also be a frontrunner in his Impreza, while Beppo Harrach, from Austria, has previous Mecsek experience in his Lancer.

Italian Marco Cavigioli, who was slowed on the previous round with a brake pipe problem, resumes his expanded IRC Production Cup bid in Hungary.

He said: “It took me a little while to get used to driving this type of car again, but I’m pleased to have reached the finish in the Czech Republic and I’m sure we will be more competitive at the next round in Hungary.”