Praise for Pascoal from co-driver Ramalho

Vitor Pascoal’s co-driver Luis Ramalho has praised his fellow Portuguese for his determination to continue his competition career.

Pascoal took his Peugeot 207 Super 2000 to fourth overall on Sata Rallye Açores last season but a lack of funds forced him to sell the car.

But rather than stop competing, Pascoal purchased a standard-specification – and cheaper – Ralliart Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, which he is using for only the third time on this week’s Intercontinental Rally Challenge event. He is 11th overall after three stages.

“He wanted to keep running so this was the best solution as he sold his 207 and this car was cheaper to use,” said Ramalho. “He drove a Lancer Evolution XI for many years so it’s not a problem for him to make this change.”

Pascoal and Ramalho are competing together for the first time this season having been rivals in Portuguese events for a number of years.

“Vitor is very good on gravel, very consistent and everything with him is easy,” added Ramalho.