Avbelj on the podium in the Tuscan archipelago, misfortune for Vaher. Johansson and Grönvall solid in the top ten, Araldo back on the podium in Val d’Aosta.
On the challenging and scenic roads of the Elba Island Rallye, opening round of the 2025 IRCup, the tone was set from the very first kilometers: the show was on. After a cautious start, Bostjan Avbelj found his rhythm with his trademark surgical progression, setting two crucial fastest times on SS4 “Due Colli” and its repeat on SS6. A textbook comeback, built with experience and composure, that earned him a third place overall in the IRCup classification alongside co-driver Rebeka Kobal. A podium to remember for the MS Munaretto crew.
A premature end, however, for the team’s other frontrunner Jaspar Vaher, forced to retire during SS4. A bitter conclusion for him and co-driver Rait Jansen after a promising start. But the season is just getting underway, and the Estonian duo is already looking ahead with determination to the next round — the ERC event in Hungary.
The season continues in a clean and efficient fashion for Mille Johansson and Johan Grönvall, who delivered a consistent and well-managed drive in the Rally Adriatico. The Scandinavian pair remained steadily within the top ten throughout the event, crossing the finish line in sixth place overall and clinching second in the Under 25 category. A flawless performance from a driver who proves once again to be precise and strategic, reading each stage with pinpoint accuracy.
Strong consistency also from Jacopo Araldo and Lorena Boero, now regulars on the podium. In Val d’Aosta, the Piedmontese crew secured yet another prestigious result, finishing third overall and second in the CRZ1 category, confirming their excellent feeling with the Czech-built car. Unfortunately, the event was overshadowed by tragedy: the rally was suspended at the end of SS4 in respect for the passing of driver Massimiliano Ponzetti. A loss that deeply affected the entire rally community, united in mourning.
It was a bitter debut instead for Giovanni Gravante, co-driven by Marco Lepore, who were forced to retire due to personal issues at the end of SS7 at the Rally Terra di Argil. A setback that prematurely ended a rally that had started with promising pace. Still, the season is long, and new opportunities to bounce back lie just ahead on the calendar.
