Top Azores result will give Bouffier IRC lead

Bryan Bouffier will start this week’s Sata Rallye Açores knowing that a strong finish will put him on top of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge drivers’ standings.

The Peugeot France driver, who claimed a sensational victory on the IRC season-opening Rallye Monte-Carlo back in January, is three points adrift of Freddy Loix after five events.

With Loix not including the gravel-based event on his schedule, Bouffier is well placed to move into the title lead when the rally finishes in the town of Ponta Delgada on Saturday evening (16 July).

“I don’t have massive experience on gravel and I have no experience of the Azores at all,” said Bouffier. “I am very motivated because I know my position in the championship is good and to be leading the championship would be very important. But the competition will be very high with some tough drivers to beat. If I can finish on the podium I will be happy but if I have a chance to win then of course I will push.”

Peugeot has claimed victory on the island rally since it was first included on the IRC schedule in 2009. Former champion Kris Meeke triumphed that season before Portuguese ace Bruno Magalhães claimed victory in 2010.