Lancia wins its 2nd rally in a row in the Canary Islands... «we pushed the car to the limit»

Just a few days after making an impression in Croatia, Lancia confirms that its return to the top level is no mere flash in the pan. In the Canary Islands, on a totally different terrain, the Italian brand scored a second consecutive win in the WRC2. And once again, the demonstration is total.

Perfect weekend

From the very first special stages of Rally Islas Canarias, the tone was set. Yohan Rossel and Arnaud Dunand quickly took the lead and never relinquished it. On Spain's volcanic roads, the French duo set an impressive pace, posting five consecutive fastest times on the very first day. Over the course of the 18 special stages, Rossel set six fastest times and gradually extended his lead. A performance built on method, precision and a perfect understanding of the conditions. Because here, nothing was simple: between sudden showers, wet sections and abrasive asphalt heated by the sun, the rally demanded constant adaptation. But where many hesitated, Lancia always seemed to be one step ahead.

“We pushed the car to the limit”.”

Rossel's victory was due not only to his speed, but also to his management. While the first part of the rally was under control, the second part was much more tense. “We pushed the car to the limit, then tried to manage the pace... but it wasn't easy,” confides the French driver. Behind him, the battle for second place maintained constant pressure, forcing the leader to stay focused right to the end.

The result was clear-cut: a clear-cut victory, built on an almost perfect weekend. Tire choice, set-up, strategy... it all worked. After Croatia, Rossel is back on track and now leads the WRC2 championship.

Ypsilon Rally2 confirms its status

At the heart of this latest victory, the Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale confirms what Croatia had already hinted at: it is now a benchmark. On a rally as challenging as the Canaries, the Italian car demonstrated its impressive versatility. Capable of attacking in dry conditions as well as remaining stable on slippery sections, it enabled its crew to exploit its full potential. For Lancia CEO Roberta Zerbi, this success goes far beyond a simple result: it validates the project. Above all, it confirms that Lancia's return to rallying is part of a lasting dynamic.

Nikolay Gryazin limits the damage after a difficult start

On the other side of the Lancia Corse HF stand, it was a more eventful weekend for Nikolay Gryazin and Konstantin Aleksandrov. Hampered by severe understeer from the fifth stage onwards, the crew lost time and saw the top positions slip away. But far from giving up, Gryazin began a solid comeback as the stages went by. Faster on the second part of the rally, he even set a better time and managed to climb back up to sixth place. A frustrating result on paper, but one which shows real potential despite the difficulties.

Lancia already setting the standard in WRC2

With this second consecutive victory, Lancia has clearly changed dimension. The brand is no longer content with making a successful comeback: it is now establishing itself as the team to beat in WRC2.

Rossel takes the lead in the drivers' championship, while Lancia Corse HF consolidates its lead in the teams' standings. A strong dynamic, in line with the performances seen since the start of the season. In two weeks' time, Rally Portugal will offer a new and different playing field. But one thing is certain: Lancia arrives with a clear status. The favourite.