Yağız Avcı and Dmitry Sotnikov are used to racing hard across the world's most inhospitable terrain as rally stars, however nothing could quite prepare them for a duel on one of earth's most dangerous roads - the D915 in Turkey.
Five-time Turkish Rally Championship winner Avcı stepped out of the shadow of his legendary father Nejat to become a star after completing his first race in 2002.
Russian truck driver Sotnikov is a two-time Silk Way Rally champion, who has also placed second at the 2017 and 2019 Dakar Rally, so he knows how to master natural and man-made obstacles.
The D915 from Trabzon to Bayburt is regularly named as one of the world's most dangerous roads thanks to its spine-chilling 13 hairpin bends over 13 gruelling kilometres at an altitude of 2330 metres.
Built by Turks and Russians together in 1915, the terrifying hairpin bends on the foot of Soganli Mountain are seen as one of the toughest road challenges.
Nevertheless Avcı and Sotnikov rose to the occasion with a thrilling duel on the narrow cliff road that takes no prisoners.
Dmitry Sotnikov and Yagiz Avci pose for a portrait in D915 in Trabzon, Turkey. Photos: Red Bull Content Pool
Avcı, 35, revealed: "It was quite a risky track that did justice to its notoriety. The track was quite dangerous, but also very exciting and competitive.
"It was a high-adrenaline challenge with plenty of tight and hairpin bends, pushing the limits of the car and tyres. Stones and rocks created fewer problems for it (Sotnikov's Kamaz - Master truck) than for me.
"Our exhilarating race was a nice contribution to the story of the road."
Sotnikov, 34, added: "I raced in the most dangerous rallies of the world, but I had never competed on such a narrow road with so many bends.
"It's a road with a marvellous view, but, naturally, the cliffs are scary. It also imposes a great psychological burden on the driver. You have to focus very well.
"When I found out that this road was built by Turks and Russians, I was fascinated by this great history. I felt special, just like this road."
Dmitry Sotnikov (RUS) in action during the KAMAZ-Masters and Yagiz Acvi 2019 D 915 in Trabzon, Turkey.
https://youtu.be/qe0COIcOMfo
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.
