Touring car star Tarquini is a rally fan

Gabriele Tarquini demonstrated his support of Rally Internacional de Curitiba by helping to flag away the leading competitors over the starting ramp in the centre of the city on Thursday afternoon.

The 48-year-old Italian, who is in Curitiba to begin the defence of his FIA World Touring Car Championship crown, braved heavy rain to perform his duties.

As well as hosting the second round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, Curitiba is the venue of the opening two races of the WTCC season. Both events will be based at the city’s race circuit and will enjoy extensive coverage on Eurosport, Europe’s largest television channel.