IRC 2WD Cup preview: Raoux to hit back

After failing to get to grips with the tight and twisty asphalt stages on the last round in Sanremo, Jean-Michel Raoux will be aiming to get his IRC 2WD Cup title bid back on track having slipped behind Stefano Albertini in the standings.

Albertini, from Italy, won’t be competing in Scotland due to funding restrictions so Raoux will be looking to take advantage in his Clio R3. With a coefficient scoring system of 1.5 in operation in Scotland, Raoux could gain a sizeable advantage over his rival.

While the veteran Frenchman has never competed on RACMSA Rally of Scotland before he does have ample experience of driving on loose surfaces having been a regular in the French gravel championship over the years.

Defending champion Harry Hunt, from London, and fellow Briton John MacCrone will also be contenders for category honours, as will the Honda Civic Type R trio of Martin Kangur, Janos Puskadi and Scottish youngster Graeme Schoneville, who is stepping up to a Civic Type R for his international rally debut.

MacCrone has been touted as a future champion and will be anxious to impress alongside co-driver and fellow Scot Stuart Loudon.

Australian Molly Taylor, in an M-Sport Fiesta R2, is an established gravel driver and will pose a threat, as will Irishman Mark Donnelly.