Fri 06 Jan 2023

Battistolli named ERC's Most Improved Driver of 2022

It was a close finish, but in the end, Alberto Battistolli emerged as the Most Improved Driver in last year’s FIA European Rally Championship season.

Battistolli topped the fan vote, which was held on FIAERC.com over the month of December, scooping the accolade after receiving 31 per cent of the votes. 

Simon Wagner placed second with 22.6% of the vote falling in his favour, while Ghjuvanni Rossi - winner of the final round of the Clio Trophy by Toksport WRT - came third with 17.8 per cent. 

Battistolli overcame a host of challenges to show consistent improvement throughout the 2022 season, proven by several top-three stage times. Fans and fellow drivers alike were impressed by his dedication and hard work both on and off the stages. 

“I'm thankful beyond imagination to everyone that voted for me and I will keep up my commitment to improving again this year,” Battistolli said in reaction to the news.

“For me, it's such a great honour to be part of the ERC family and to develop in such a beautiful environment. 

“Obviously, this was made possible by my co-driver Simone Scattolin and mentor Giandomenico Basso - they kept an eye on me throughout the whole season and helped me to grow.”

Battistolli is already preparing for this year’s campaign with a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. Round one - Rally Serras de Fafe e Felgueiras - takes place from 11 - 12 March. 

Finland
Starts: Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 4:00:00 PM
Italy
Starts: Friday, July 26, 2024 at 8:30:00 AM
Hungary
Starts: Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 9:30:00 AM