Champions back in action after Barum crash

The Team MRF Tyres duo were crowned 2022 FIA European Rally Champions in the run-up to last month’s penultimate round, but retired from the asphalt fixture on the third stage after crashing into a tree.

Both Llarena and Fernández exited the car unassisted before being taken to hospital for routine check-ups, where Llarena was found to have broken a vertebra.

Less than a fortnight later the pair are returning to action at this week’s Rally Blendio Princesa de Asturias in a Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo. The event runs from Friday to Saturday and takes place in northern Spain.

“Back to the wheel!” Llarena said in a social media announcement. “Barely 10 days after our accident in Barum and five days since I had a vertebrae surgery, we can say we will compete in Rally Blendio Princesa de Asturias.

“I want to publicly thank José Maria Fortuño and Manuel Aviño for their efforts to put us in better hands in the fastest way possible. In these moments you realise the people who always have your back, through thick and thin.”

Other entrants for the Oviedo-based event include Javier Pardo, who swaps his Fabia for a Suzuki SWIFT R4LLY S. He joins Joan Vinyes in the Suzuki Motor Ibérica squad.

Llarena and Fernández are expected to return to the ERC for the eighth and final round at RallyRACC Catalunya – Costa Daurada. The rally is based in Salou and takes place from 20 – 22 October.