1981 Rally Sanremo (Night) - WRC Racetrack Artwork

Rally Sanremo was a staple of the WRC calendar from its inception in 1973 until 2003. Known for its stunning coastal and mountain stages, it challenged drivers with a mix of surfaces and technical routes. The 1981 edition was particularly historic as it played a crucial role in determining the WRC drivers’ championship.

The 1981 Rally Sanremo was notable for its combination of gravel and tarmac stages, requiring teams to adapt their setups throughout the event. Tight mountain roads, unpredictable weather, and varying surfaces pushed drivers to their limits, demanding both speed and strategic acumen.

- Ari Vatanen’s performance in the Ford Escort RS1800 sealed his first and only drivers' championship title.
- The rally featured fierce competition from Michele Mouton, who showcased her talent on home soil in Italy.
- The mixed-surface nature of the rally tested the versatility of both cars and drivers, setting a high bar for future events.

The Rally Sanremo was a showcase of Italian motorsport passion, blending the glamour of the Riviera with the rugged intensity of rallying. The 1981 event holds a special place in WRC history for its role in crowning a champion and highlighting the sport’s blend of elegance and endurance.

- The rally included iconic stages such as the winding Ligurian mountain roads, renowned for their technical difficulty.
- Ari Vatanen’s championship win marked the peak of Ford’s rally success with the Escort RS1800.
- Michele Mouton’s strong showing in Sanremo foreshadowed her historic achievements in the WRC the following year.

Fans remember the 1981 Rally Sanremo for its dramatic championship-deciding moments, stunning Italian landscapes, and the masterful performance of Ari Vatanen. The event encapsulated the essence of rallying, blending beauty, speed, and competition into an unforgettable spectacle.