The national title can be decided at the La Nucia Rally. Pepe López will play his first ‘match ball’ at the Alicante event, penultimate of the season, The leader arrives with a slight advantage over his two immediate pursuers, Efrén Llarena and Alejandro Cachón. It may also be the scenario in which Hyundai leaves the brand title settled.
López arrives at La Nucia with an advantage of 12 points over Llarena and 13 over Cachón. To be crowned he needs to leave there with at least 38, so it will not be easy for him to settle the title, since he not only needs a good result, but also the failure of his rivals. Last year’s winner, Surhayen Pernía, also has mathematical options. while Iván Ares and ‘Cohete’ Suárez, already ruled out for the championship, are always favorites to win.
Another possible contender will be Alberto Monarri, who makes his debut with a Skoda after Suzuki said goodbye to rallying. The test, which starts on Friday and ends on Saturday, also scores points for the Renault Clio Trophy, the Dacia Sandero Cup and the RTS Scholarship.
Spain Championship
1. Pepe Lopez, 166 points
2. Efren Llarena, 154
3. Alejandro Cachon, 153
4. Surhayen Pernia, 145
5. Ivan Ares, 93