Sousa determined to secure Azores outing

Rising star Bernardo Sousa says he won’t be satisfied until he has won Sata Rallye Acores.

The reigning Portuguese champion contested selected Intercontinental Rally Challenge events in 2010 at the wheel of an M-Sport Ford Fiesta S2000.

Although he was out of luck on his two IRC appearances last year, he is determined to make an impact when the series heads to the Atlantic archipelago for the gravel-based spectacular from 14-16 July.

“I really like this event but I always seem to have problems when I go there,” said the 28-year-old from Madeira. “I will do the rally this year and will push very hard to win. I’ve got the experience and the car to do it. I really hope it will be possible.”

Sousa, who has a new co-driver in Antonio Costa this year, has ruled out an entry on his home round of the IRC, Rali Vinho Madeira, due to logistical complications. However, he could still appear in a course opening zero car on the Funchal-based rally, which runs from 4-6 August.