Rally-eMag September 2013 | Page 25

ERC: Barum Czech Rally / Rally review Vaclav Pech posed the most serious threat to Kopecky’s charge. No Bouffier One of Kopecky’s most serious rivals, Bryan Bouffier was forced to withdraw from the event before it had even started. The Frenchman had enrolled but as the event approached found himself unable to secure the necessary funds. Efforts of the local organizers as well as championship promoter Eurosport Events also proved insufficient. Bouffier’s withdrawal came as a rather large disappointment because without him, who was to stop Kopecky from taking charge and building an almost insurmountable lead in the championship? His main opposition was now expected from teammate Esapekka Lappi. “Czech fans” are infamous around the world. 25/52 Shortly after its inception it started to draw wellknown driv \