The European Rally Championship season kicked off with a bang at Rally Sierra Morena, and the lessons learned were nothing short of spectacular. From Nikolay Gryazin’s dominant victory to the unexpected challenges faced by seasoned veterans, the event was a rollercoaster of excitement and drama.
Gryazin showcased his asphalt prowess by clinching his first ERC win on Tarmac, leaving local favorites in his dust. Despite not being a full-time contender, Gryazin’s performance sent a clear message to his competitors. His strategic tire choices and blistering pace set him apart from the pack, securing a well-deserved victory after four years.
The rally wasn’t without its share of surprises and heartbreaks. José Antonio Suárez’s podium hopes were dashed by a puncture, while former F1 driver Jos Verstappen faced a steep learning curve in his ERC debut. Verstappen’s journey, although challenging, highlighted his determination to excel in the competitive world of rallying.
The event also saw some veterans struggle, with Efrén Llarena and Mads Østberg facing technical issues that hampered their performance. Østberg’s frustration was palpable as he revealed a bizarre throttle problem that plagued his stages, resulting in a disappointing eighth-place finish.
The tire suppliers’ championship witnessed Michelin’s dominance at Rally Sierra Morena, with a podium sweep and top-five finishes. Pirelli, represented by Andrea Mabellini, trailed behind, setting the stage for an intense battle between the two giants in the upcoming races.
In the Junior ERC category, Sergi Pérez clinched a thrilling victory on his debut, edging out Calle Carlberg by a mere 3.4 seconds. The intense competition and close finishes in the Junior ERC hinted at an exhilarating season ahead, with young talents vying for supremacy on the rally stages.
Thierry Neuville’s inconspicuous presence at the event raised eyebrows, with the defending World Rally champion quietly clocking impressive times alongside current leader Elfyn Evans. Neuville’s narrow escape from disaster added a touch of suspense to the proceedings, reminding everyone of the fine line between triumph and tragedy in the world of rallying.
As the dust settles on Rally Sierra Morena, one thing is clear – the 2025 European Rally Championship season promises thrills, spills, and unexpected twists at every turn. Stay tuned as the contenders gear up for the next chapter in this high-octane saga of speed, skill, and sheer determination.