Giandomenico Basso, a significant figure in the history of the Rally of Madeira, is returning to the island 13 years after his last victory. At 52 years old, the experienced Italian driver, who won the Madeiran event four times (2006, 2007, 2009, 2013), is now competing in a Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 and has expressed his determination to be competitive.
Basso has a deep connection with the Rally of Madeira, dating back to 2005 when he was close to winning on his debut. His dominance was consolidated in 2006 and 2007, years in which he also won the European title. Despite some setbacks, such as in 2008, Basso has always shown remarkable recovery ability, culminating in one of the event's most memorable duels in 2013 against Bruno Magalhães.
The Italian driver brings not only his vast experience but also his passion and memories of the Madeiran stages. "I can't wait to meet so many people again... and the many fans that rallies have on the island," he stated, anticipating a return that he considers more than just sporting, but historic.
