Donuts
galore
in Spain

On both runs through the Riudecanyes stage on Sunday 11 November, crews will be required to complete a high-speed donut - a full lap of the roundabout located 4.21 kilometres into the 16.35-kilometre test on the final day of the mixed-surface event. The roundabout is better known as the finishing area of the Coll de la Teixeta Power Stage from last year’s rally.

A statement from the organisers of RallyRACC Catalunya-Costa Daurada, Rally de Espana, said: “Doing a complete lap before continuing the route, an unprecedented ‘donut’ at full speed that will become a true [highlight] for all rally fans, who will be able to witness the rally cars making a spectacular skid of more than 360 degrees. This special feature is a complete novelty in the WRC and another contribution of the organiser of the Spanish round, eager to provide the championship with elements that will make the event even more interesting for spectators.”

In a further change to the rally itinerary, the penultimate stage, the 26.51-kilometre Santa Marina test, will form the Power Stage, where bonus points will be awarded to the fastest three crews. The Power Stage traditionally runs as the final stage of world championship rallies but event organisers believe the extra length will pose more of a challenge to the crews than the 4.11-kilometre La Serra d'Almos stage, the last of the rally.

The event begins with a ceremonial start in the centre of Barcelona at 17:30hrs local on Thursday 8 November. Next stop for the WRC regulars is Wales Rally GB from 13-16 September.

Photo: Miquel Rovira