After the first four stages of the Rally Islas Canarias, tension is rising as there have been four different leaders. The second round of the FIA European Rally Championship saw five changes of lead during Friday’s leg of the event. Yoann Bonato is leading the exciting battle for victory, finishing the first leg just 0.3 seconds ahead of Mathieu Franceschi, the winner of the Rally Hungary. Bonato, driving a Citroën C3 Rally2 with Michelin tires, took the lead in the first stage of the day, pushing the previous night’s leader, Hayden Paddon, down in the rankings. However, consecutive wins by Alejandro Cachón in the specials put him in the lead with his Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 equipped with Pirelli tires. Unfortunately, a damaged tire caused Cachón to drop in the rankings in SS5, losing 40.6 seconds and falling to 14th place overall. This misfortune allowed Bonato to regain the lead, 0.9 seconds ahead of Franceschi, who then reduced the gap to 0.3 seconds after SS6. The battle for victory continues on the second day, with both drivers fighting hard for the win.
Bonato, the winner of the 2023 Rally Islas Canarias, expressed his satisfaction with the perfect conditions on the first day. He praised his car and the tires for performing well in the higher afternoon temperatures. However, he acknowledged that the fight is not over and that he needs to make an effort to stay ahead. Franceschi, driving a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 with Michelin tires, briefly took the lead from Bonato at the end of SS3. Although he held the lead for a short time, his second-place position overnight is another impressive performance from the young driver. Franceschi mentioned the challenging last section of the final special stage, where the grip was unusual and difficult to judge. He preferred to focus on the next stage rather than worry about the result. He is determined to improve and work on areas that need attention.
Hayden Paddon, the defending ERC champion from the BRC Racing team, is currently in third place, just 12.1 seconds behind the leader. Diego Ruiloba is the main competitor in the Spanish championship, holding fourth place. José Antonio Suárez and Jon Armstrong swapped positions in the final test, with Armstrong’s performance standing out as he makes his asphalt debut with the M-Sport Poland Ford Fiesta Rally2, equipped with Pirelli tires. Mads Østberg, Miko Marczyk, the delayed Cachón, and Yeray Lemes complete the top 10.
Unfortunately, Miklós Csomós suffered a serious accident in SS3 while in fifth place. He was taken to the hospital, where it was confirmed that he had a broken collarbone. His co-driver, Attila Nagy, escaped unharmed, but their Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo suffered significant damage.
There are still six specials left in the Rally Islas Canarias, with the decisive stage taking place on Saturday. The first special, Arucas – Firgas, is 9.41 km long and starts at 09:17 local time. This is followed by the longest special of the event, Moya – Valleseco, which is 27.70 km long and starts at 10:07. The Power Stage, San Mateo – Valsequillo, is scheduled to start at 17:05 after the first pass at 11:30.
These are the current leadership positions after Friday’s specials.
© 2024
Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo secured another victory for the Portuguese national team during the Eurocup. With an exceptional performance, Ronaldo led the team to a spectacular victory over Spain. The player scored three goals, including a free kick in the last minute of the game, ensuring the draw for Portugal. With this incredible performance, Ronaldo once again showed why he is considered one of the best soccer players in the world.
The match between Portugal and Spain was thrilling from start to finish. Both teams showed skill and determination, but it was Cristiano Ronaldo who shone. With his speed, technical ability, and precision in shooting, he stood out on the field. Ronaldo’s goals were true works of art, leaving fans and opponents impressed.
In addition to his brilliant performance, Cristiano Ronaldo also showed leadership and team spirit. He encouraged his teammates, made precise passes, and created goal-scoring opportunities. His presence on the field was inspiring for all Portuguese players.
With this victory, Portugal strengthens its position in the competition and shows that it is a team to be feared. The Eurocup promises to be exciting, with great games and unforgettable moments. And with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the Portuguese national team, expectations are even higher.
Football fans around the world are amazed by Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance. His dedication, talent, and passion for the sport are evident in every game he plays. And with each match, he continues to write his name in the history of football.
Portugal’s next match will be against Germany, and fans are eager to see another brilliant performance from Cristiano Ronaldo. It will be another challenge for the Portuguese team, but with Ronaldo leading the way, they will surely be confident in their chances of victory.
The Euro Cup is just beginning, and the world’s eyes are on the players and teams that will compete. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the standout players of the tournament, and his skill and determination are an inspiration to all. Football fans cannot help but admire the talent of this exceptional player.
