Sparco-supported Italian rally legend Paolo Andreucci has stormed to victory in last weekend’s 50th running of the classic Rally Friuli Venezia Giulia, securing eight stage wins in the 11 stage event.

 

Andreucci, who was taking part in the rally using Sparco’s state of the art overalls - derived from the company’s extra lightweight Hocotex technology - alongside his co-driver Anna Andreussi, drove his Peugeot 208 T16 to a comfortable victory in the Italian Rally Championship event. 

 

Andreucci is a special case for Sparco. Not only does he also wear a Sparco helmet, but the Italian has always requested Sparco overalls two sizes larger than his frame so that he can incorporate a special cushion layer when he is driving to cool himself down. Effectively using the overall like a refrigerator, he benefits from the comfort of the Sparco suit but with added benefits to cope with heat.

 

Andreucci enjoyed a faultless opening day at Rally Friuli, winning each of the five stages, twice topping the 14.08km Subit stage and 10.47km Erbezzo stage, as well as the short 1.6km Citta di Udine special. 

 

With 50km run on Friday, Saturday’s six stages added almost 100km more and Andreucci did everything required to capitalise on his Friday performance. He won the first three stages on Saturday before ensuring the rally win with three further top three times. 

 

Giuseppe Cantoni, Sparco Italy Commercial Manager, said: “Once again, Paolo has shown his sheer class and star quality with a fine win in the Rally Friuli Venezia Giulia. We have had a long and successful relationship with him over many years and this weekend’s win is another great example of what we can achieve together. Our top of the line Hocotex overalls continue to offer the lightweight comfort and professional qualities that a multi championship winner rally driver like Paolo demands from us. We reflect on a great victory from the 50th running of the Friuli rally and look forward to many more in the future.”