Pepe López begins the defense of his reign in Córdoba

The ‘lethargy’ is over. After a well-deserved vacation, the Spanish Championship returns to the fray at the Sierra Morena Rally. In cordoba, Pepe López begins the defense of his reign in front of a large competition that wants to snatch the crown in the season that starts this weekend. Last year he fought to the last meter, and this time another great fight is expected.

The Cordovan event celebrates its 40th anniversary and, therefore, it will be held on Saturday and Sunday, although the qualifying section and the start ceremony will take place on Friday. With some stretches of asphalt that have written important pages in the history of Nacional, a close duel between the main ‘tenors’ of the championship is expected. Hyundai is the brand with the greatest representation, since, in addition to López (who has won in the Andalusian event in his two participations), It also has Iván Ares, Surhayen Pernía, Óscar Palomo and Javier Pardo, among others, behind the wheel of their respective i20.

On the part of Skoda, ‘Rocket’ Suárez is the spearhead in search of recovering the title achieved in 2021, but they also receive Jan Solans, which will run in Córdoba although it has not yet confirmed if it will cover the entire season. Citroën passes the baton of the now World Cup Alejandro Cachon to another young Asturian, Diego Ruiloba, that he will try to follow in the footsteps of his countryman, the surprise of last year.

The test, which has an entry of 91 teams, It will also qualify for the Renault Clio Trophy, Dacia Sandero Cup and Junior Scholarship.

Spanish Championship 2023