(15.05.2024) In terms of spectator safety, it is worth to use experience and knowledge of people who understand the risk in rallying very well. Michèle Mouton, a rallying legend and 1982 WRC runner-up is the one to be listened carefully when it comes to safety.
Mouton needs no introduction to motorsport fans all over the world. Former French rally driver has four WRC victories under her belt. She was at her peak during fascinating, flamboyant, yet dangerous years of Group B cars. She competed behind the wheel of such cars as Alpine A110, Fiat 131 Abarth or Lancia Stratos HF, but she is remembered best for her stunning performances for Audi factory team and the way she mastered multiple evolutions of insane Audi Quattro.
Currently Mouton is a FIA Safety Delegate in the World Rally Championship. Former driver works not only during the series’ rounds. Months before the events she helps the organisers to prepare safe route and spectator zones and ORLEN 80th Rally Poland is no exception.
Having already covered the route of Polish WRC counter, Mouton shared her opinions and suggestions regarding the safety of stages and fan and media spots.
Mouton will be present in Mikolajki during the rally too. Her job is to cover all the stages before rally action unfolds. As a FIA Safety Delegate, she uses all her experience to ensure that each stage can be run safely. Mouton checks if spectators are safely located in fan zones no later than 30 minutes before stage starts and the stage is ready for the competition.
That’s why obeying the 30-minutes rule is crucial for running the WRC event smoothly. In case of any doubts FIA Safety Delegate can delay the stage or even cancel it if spectators are behaving in unsafe manner.
In the picture: Michèle Mouton at work during Rally Portugal at May 2024.