Marcus Gronholm, driver of the year

After recently ending his career following the final Rally of Great Britain, Marcus Gronholm has just been voted Best Driver of the Year by Autosport magazine.

A well-deserved reward considering his rich sporting career, marked by two world titles (2000 and 2002) and a great battle throughout the season with his biggest rival: Sébastien Loeb.

The Finn defended himself until the last event and could have hoped to win the title, but two consecutive off-road excursions (Japan and Ireland) diminished his hopes…

Let us recall, however, that the double world champion had a thirteen-point lead over LOEB after his victory in Finland. A considerable lead that diminished over the following events, ultimately giving the Frenchman a fourth title, as he claimed victory eight times this season while Marcus triumphed in five events. (Sweden, Italy, Greece, Finland, New Zealand)

“I could have won a third world crown, but it wasn’t possible due to a mistake made in Ireland. Sébastien has been very fast this season, he deserves this title!” declared Marcus Grönholm with sportsmanship.

During the last three editions, the prize had been awarded each time to the winning driver, namely: Sébastien Loeb. This year is different, as both protagonists, who engaged in a fierce duel throughout the season, can each rejoice in a title. Not sure the Finn will be satisfied with that…