When reggaeton and rally collide

This weekend, at Rally Italia Sardegna, there is a certain livery causing a stir, with observers noting car number 64’s J Balvin-inspired artwork. J Balvin, the Colombian singer, nicknamed the “Prince of Reggaeton” has a social media following in the tens of millions and his songs receive hundreds of millions of views.

A little further research reveals that the driver of the Skoda Fabia RC 2, Giuseppe Pozzo, has a special personal connection with J Balvin.

Interviewed by WRC TV on Friday, the Italian-national Pozzo explained that he is based in Colombia and is the boyfriend of J Balvin’s cousin, as well as being a close friend of J Balvin’s parents.

When he began discussing with J Balvin his wish to drive in Sardinia, the global superstar was only too happy to assist in making it happen. “We were talking about this (rallying) and how crazy I am about rally. Now, here we are!

“[J Balvin] loves sport…he has a lot of respect for the drivers and that is the reason that we are here.”

Asked if J Balvin would be following his progress this weekend, Pozzo answered: “He will for sure follow the race.”

He is convinced as well, that J Balvin will enjoy what he sees. “I imagine that all people are going to fall in love with this sport. This is culture, this is art.

“Driving a rally car in such a beautiful landscape is like a piece of art to me.”

So, as for J Balvin joining Pozzo in the car in the future? Pozzo believes the answer to that is with J Balvin’s parents. “I will ask his father and mother to pressure him a lot!”

In terms of his own expectations for the weekend, Pozzo made it clear that he is in Sardinia to enjoy himself. “I hope to have a lot of fun, amuse people and spend a very nice time in Sardinia which is a charming island.

“I am in love with this island and want to compete with other people that have my level of passion, from the bottom of my heart.”