25-year old Chris Ingram clinched the FIA 2019 European regional title after finishing fourth on the final round of this year’s series, the Hungary Rally based at Nyíregyháza.
He is the first British driver to win the series since Vic Elford in 1967 and was co-driven by Russ Whittock, son of the former WRC co-driver Dave Whittock.
Ingram’s title success was remarkable. He had never won an ERC qualifying round, this year finishing second in Canarias and Cyprus. He drove a Skoda Fabia R5 Evo, prepared by the German TOK Sport team.
Russian Citroen driver, Alexey Lukyanuk, led most of the way since the start, but fell back on the final stage of the two-day event with a puncture, the veteran Hungarian Frigyes Turan eventually winning in a Skoda.
Alexey Lukyanuk in a Citroen C3 R5.
A puncture slowed champion Chris Ingram's progress.
Bad weather caused the cancellation of the final stage.
Ingram finished the season nine points in front of Lukyanuk.
Many top drivers suffered punctures, while championship contender Lukasz Habaj had broken suspension.
“It’s been a very hard road to get here but this is everything to us,” said the 25-year-old Ingram.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has helped us, everyone who has supported us. The support has been absolutely unbelievable and we are so grateful."
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.