Italy is a rally mecca. Škoda celebrates success here

Motorsport has a very deep tradition in Italy and also a strong fan base. This also applies to rallying, which is very popular in Italy. Historically, local brands have performed very well in the domestic championship, but in the last ten years, the Czech car manufacturer has been making a significant mark. This is confirmed by this year's national title, which was won by Giandomenico Basso with a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2.

The Italian national rally championship is traditionally a great challenge for both drivers and car manufacturers. The local motorsport tradition attracts a huge number of talented drivers to rallying, and Italy's rich automotive culture means that there has always been strong support for domestic brands.

However, the Czech car manufacturer Škoda has also enjoyed success here, especially in recent years. For example, Italian veteran Giandomenico Basso has won three drivers' titles with its cars. He won his third title this year with a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2.

Italy is one of the European countries where rallying has a long tradition and enjoys long-standing popularity. Why is that?
There are many reasons. One contributing factor is the significant investment that domestic brands have historically made into motorsport, particularly rallying. Passion for the sport has existed in Italy for well over a century, and the media devote considerable attention to it. This ensures large audiences for events and high recognition for competitors. It is no coincidence that one of the oldest motorsport events in the world, the Targa Florio, is held in Italy.

What got you into rallying? 
As a child, I was passionate about both football and cars. My father used to take me to rallies. He loved the races, even though he never competed himself. When I was around seven or eight years old, he took me go-karting—and I was hooked. I got into a rally car as soon as I possibly could.

What was your journey to the cockpit of a Rally2 car like?
Throughout my career, I had the opportunity to drive a wide range of competition cars across multiple categories—from the Trofeo Cinquecento, through S1600 and S2000 machines, all the way to Rally2 cars. I often jumped into new cars without prior preparation. I’m fortunate to adapt quickly to different vehicles, and that was true for Rally2 as well.

You have extensive experience with cars in this category. What do you like about the Fabia RS Rally2 model?
I won three of my five Italian titles with Škoda. The RS Rally2, the latest evolution of the Fabia model, is an exceptional car—better in nearly every aspect, especially at high speeds and on uneven surfaces.

Can you reveal any tricks on how to be fast on Italian special stages?
Competitions in Italy are mostly held on winding roads, where the average speed is lower than in other European races. So, you must apply the right technique and maintain the proper pace in every single corner. Any hesitation is fatal.

How do you perceive the cooperation with Škoda Motorsport from the customer's point of view?
Our cooperation mainly takes place through the team. But I know that the team and mechanics are present at championship events and provide professional support to all customer cars.

What are your plans for the upcoming season?
 I’m enjoying this very important title and am not thinking about the future yet. If a good opportunity arises, I will race again. If not, I’ll consider something else.