Rally Mexico in the World Rally Championship
Mexico (Guanajuato)
WRC since 2004 (18th edition) until 2016
Surface: Gravel
The Rally de Mexico holds a significant place in the world of rallying, captivating audiences since its inception. Its origins trace back to 1979, when it began as a regional event known as the Rally Patria. Over time, it evolved into one of the most iconic rallies in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar.
In 2004, the Rally de Mexico was officially included in the WRC, marking a milestone for motorsport in Mexico and Latin America. This move brought international attention to the rally and solidified its reputation as a premier event in the rallying world. Since then, it has been a regular fixture on the WRC calendar, attracting top drivers and teams from around the globe.
The Rally de Mexico is renowned for its unique characteristics, including its high-altitude stages and challenging terrain. The rally's stages often feature gravel roads that wind through the picturesque landscapes of central Mexico, offering a thrilling and demanding experience for competitors.
One of the most iconic aspects of the Rally de Mexico is its altitude. Many of the stages take place at elevations exceeding 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, presenting a unique set of challenges for both drivers and their cars. The reduced oxygen levels at high altitude can affect engine performance, making it essential for teams to adjust their setups and driving strategies accordingly.
The rally's stages also incorporate elements of Mexico's rich cultural heritage, with routes passing through historic towns and villages, as well as iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids of Teotihuacan. This blend of motorsport and cultural immersion adds to the rally's appeal and showcases Mexico's diverse offerings to the world.
Over the years, the Rally de Mexico has witnessed numerous memorable moments and victories from legendary drivers. Their triumphs on the challenging Mexican stages have contributed to the rally's enduring legacy and its status as a highlight of the WRC calendar.
The Rally de Mexico continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling action, stunning scenery, and vibrant atmosphere. It remains a testament to Mexico's passion for motorsport and its ability to host world-class events that showcase the country's unique beauty and culture on the global stage.
Rally de Mexico best stage
One of the most exhilarating and iconic stages of the Rally de Mexico is the "El Brinco" stage. This stage stands out for its challenging terrain, breathtaking scenery, and the thrilling spectacle it provides for both drivers and spectators.
Named after the Spanish word for "jump," the El Brinco stage lives up to its name with its signature feature: a spectacular jump that sends rally cars soaring through the air. This jump, located near the town of Guanajuato, is a highlight of the stage and a defining moment of the rally.
The El Brinco stage offers a thrilling mix of gravel roads, tight corners, and fast straights that wind through the rugged landscapes of central Mexico. The stage's undulating terrain and varying surface conditions present a formidable challenge for drivers, testing their skill and courage to the limit.
What sets the El Brinco stage apart is its electrifying atmosphere. Spectators gather along the route, lining the hillsides and filling the stands to catch a glimpse of the action. The roar of rally cars echoes through the canyon walls as drivers tackle the challenging course, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.
The centerpiece of the El Brinco stage is the iconic jump, where rally cars launch off a ramp and soar through the air before landing with a resounding thud. This adrenaline-pumping moment is a highlight of the rally and a test of both driver and machine as they navigate the jump with precision and control.
The El Brinco stage embodies the spirit of the Rally de Mexico, combining thrilling action with stunning scenery to create an unforgettable rally experience. It remains a favorite among drivers and fans alike, symbolizing the excitement and spectacle of rallying in the heart of Mexico.
Rally de Mexico more time winners
Among the multiple-time winners of the Rally de Mexico in the World Rally Championship (WRC) are:
Sébastien Loeb: The French rally legend has triumphed at the Rally de Mexico a remarkable six times, showcasing his dominance and versatility across various rally terrains.
Sébastien Ogier: Another French rally superstar, Ogier has claimed victory at the Rally de Mexico seven times, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest rally drivers of all time.
These drivers' multiple successes at the Rally de Mexico underscore their exceptional talent and ability to conquer the demanding stages of this iconic rally. Their victories have left an indelible mark on the event's history and further elevated its status in the world of rallying.
Seasons in World Rally Championship
| 2004 |
Markko
Martin
Fri 12th - Sun 14th Mar
|
| 2005 |
Petter
Solberg
Fri 11th - Sun 13th Mar
|
| 2006 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Fri 3rd - Sun 5th Mar
|
| 2007 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Fri 9th - Sun 11th Mar
|
| 2008 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Fri 29th Feb - Sun 2nd Mar
|
| ... 1 year discontinued ... | |
| 2010 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Fri 5th - Sun 7th Mar
|
| 2011 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Thu 3rd - Sun 6th Mar
|
| 2012 |
Sebastien
Loeb
Thu 8th - Sun 11th Mar
|
| 2013 |
Sebastien
Ogier
Thu 7th - Sun 10th Mar
|
| 2014 |
Sebastien
Ogier
Thu 6th - Sun 9th Mar
|
| 2015 |
Sebastien
Ogier
Thu 5th - Sun 8th Mar
|
| 2016 |
Jari-Matti
Latvala
Thu 3rd - Sun 6th Mar
|
| 2017 |
Kris
Meeke
Thu 9th - Sun 12th Mar
|
| 2018 |
Sebastien
Ogier
Thu 8th - Sun 11th Mar
|
| 2019 |
Sebastien
Ogier
Thu 7th - Sun 10th Mar
|
| 2020 |
Sébastien
Ogier
Thu 12th - Sun 15th Mar
|
| ... 2 years discontinued ... | |
| 2023 |
Sébastien
Ogier
Thu 16th - Sun 19th Mar
|
| ... out of the WRC calendar 2 years ago. | |
