Before the ceremonial start of the ORLEN OIL 81st Rally Poland, a moment of silence was held in memory of Matteo Doretto – the young Italian rally driver who tragically lost his life during a private pre-event test earlier this week.
The tribute took place on Friday at 17:00 in the Market Square in Mikołajki, where competitors, teams, officials, and fans paused to pay their respects. The gesture reflected the profound sorrow shared by the rallying community in Poland, Italy, and across Europe.
Matteo, just 21 years old, was a rising star in the Junior ERC. He was admired for his talent, determination, and kindness – qualities that left a deep impression on all who knew him. Though his journey was cut tragically short, his memory will remain a part of this rally and of our sport.