Sottile takes IRC 2WD Cup success in Italy

Sandro Sottile has praised the performance of his JAS Motorsport R3-specification Honda Civic Type R after he took a dominant victory in the IRC 2WD Cup on Rallye Sanremo.

It was the second year in succession that the Italian driver, who hails from the mountain region overlooking the Mediterranean town, had won the two-wheel drive category. As a result he becomes the eighth different winner in the class this season.

“I’ve been delighted with the performance of my car throughout the weekend,” said Sottile. “It’s been fast and completely reliable throughout some of the most tricky conditions I can remember. This car is incredibly easy to drive thanks to the engine and handling.”

Behind Sottile, Danilo Ameglio finished second with Andrea Carella taking third. Both were driving Peugeot 206 Super 1600s.

Sottile’s victory means he climbs to equal fifth in the IRC 2WD Cup standings with two events remaining in Scotland and Cyprus. Dutchman Kevin Abbring and Brazilian Rafael Tulio continue to top the table with 20 points apiece.

Harry Hunt moved into fourth place in the title reckoning after finishing seventh in Sanremo at the wheel of his I Cars Motorsport M-Sport Ford Fiesta R2, his second successive appearance on the demanding asphalt rally.