Why ice was nice for ERC-bound Somaschini

Italian Somaschini is contesting this week’s Rally Serras de Fafe - Felgueiras - Cabreira e Boticas as part of her initial four-event campaign in a FPF Sport-managed Citroën C3 Rally2, which the 28-year-old is hoping to expand.

“I'm really enthusiastic,” said Somaschini. “After three years of attempts that didn't materialise because of the pandemic, to be able to take part in the European Championship from the very first race and therefore to be able to face these kinds of competitions that are definitely more challenging for my experience.

“I started the year with races on ice as a way of training to improve my driving technique on low-grip surfaces and I can't wait to tackle the Portuguese race on gravel, which is completely new to me. It’s another great dream come true and I'd like to thank those who have put their trust in me.

“In addition, I feel the goal of promoting my project #CorrerePerUnRespiro in an international context is so important, so that my message of awareness on cystic fibrosis reaches a wider audience and the promotional activity put in place by the new ERC promoter to further expand the visibility of the series will help me a lot in this effort.”

Nicola Arena will co-drive Somaschini, who has secured backing from Prima Assicurazioni and Bardhal, plus technical partners Sparco and Pirelli. More information on #CorrerePerUnRespiro can be found here.

• Full coverage from Rally Serras de Fafe e Felgueiras will be available on WRC+ All Live here, including every stage broadcast as it happens as well as key interviews, features and expert analysis from the service park.