The Kroon-Oil Belgian Rally Championship is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the introduction of the BRC Youngtimer, which introduces a new category for historic vehicles from the Group A era, amongst others. This innovative competition aims to captivate a broader spectrum of historic rally enthuasists, particularly as these cars are, well historic, but a world away from the Escorts that we all love so much.
The battle at the front
In the competitive landscape of Belgian rallying, anticipation builds as two-time champion Kris Princen takes the helm of the yet-to-be-homologated Porsche 992 Rally GT, marked with a “0.” Meanwhile, reigning champion Cédric Cherain pilots the well-established Porsche 991 GT3, carrying the number 1. Notably, two past winners have recently transitioned to another class. Despite the promising potential of these powerful Porsches—provided the weather remains favourable—they will initially vie for points within the RGT category. This includes seasoned contenders like seven-time Belgian champion Patrick Snijers, alongside Frank Jorissen and Henri Schmelcher, all set to debut their Porsches.
However, the spotlight for victory may well be on Jos Verstappen. Making his rally debut in Haspengouw three years prior, he now aims for the Belgian title this season, steering Wevers Sport’s Skoda Fabia RS. He comes prepared as ever. Niels Reynvoet, last year’s championship third-place finisher and boasting an impressive tally of 3 BRC victories, seeks to make a mark this year in the new Hyundai i20 N Rally2 Step2 from LifeLive Motorsport. There’s hope that the East Fleming driver quickly adapts to his new steed. Tom Rensonnet will also share this experience, as he too makes his Haspengouw debut in a Rally2 from the same team.
With eight national rally titles under his belt, Pieter Tsjoen is a name to watch, this time navigating with his daughter Juliette in the Toyota Yaris Rally2 from PTR Racing. Another formidable contender is Vincent Verschueren, a former champion from 2017, who will display his prowess in the Citroën C3 Rally2. Bjorn Syx, also in the Citroën camp, is another potential contender, especially after showing promising pace with his C3 Rally2 despite a rocky start last season.
The field is rife with outsiders, each on the cusp of making their mark. Emile Breittmayer is equipped with newfound experience in the C3 Rally2, aiming for a top-five finish. Meanwhile, local favourite Jimmy D’hondt seeks to secure another commendable position on home ground. The Skoda brigade boasts talents like local expert Jonas Langenakens, finally racing in the Skoda Fabia R5, alongside last year’s strong performer Fred Miclotte, who’s looking to improve on his eighth-place finish. Nicolas Stampaert, eager to rebound from his misfortune at the Spa Rally, and the ever-enthusiastic Richard Pex, who delights in every stage from his Fabia RS, round out a roster of contenders that promises an exhilarating competition ahead.
The Juniors
This year’s Rally van Haspengouw sees a great lineup of young drivers too. The spotlight shines bright on Lény Cols, who clinched last year’s Junior championship in the Clio Trophy, and Thyrsa Eertmans, flying the flag for the RACB National Team in familiar territory. The duo will be joined by two-time 2WD Trophy champion Christiaan Spelmans, who, despite the inevitable one-off appearance in his Clio Rally5, remains a formidable force in the region’s rally scene.
The event sees other local favorites like Eric Benaets and Loris Nuyts, both set to tackle the course in their Renaults, while father-daughter duo Laurent and Clémentine Benoit adds a familial flair to the proceedings. As the dust settles on this competition, the excitement builds—who will emerge victorious?
The Masters
A remarkable 64 teams have registered for the 27th edition of the Rally van Haspengouw, with more than a third entering the BRC Master Cup—an exclusive arena for rally drivers aged 50 or older. This infusion of seasoned expertise enriches the championship, allowing for a captivating mix of experienced hands and younger talent. Notably, after a stunning win at the Spa Rally, Jos Verstappen stands as a prime contender for both overall victories and the Masters title in Sint-Truiden, with his close ally Richard Pex, keen to secure a notable placement.
Among the roster of competitors, 15 illustrious Belgian champions are also set to grace the stages, including the legendary Pieter Tsjoen and Patrick Snijers, with the latter piloting his striking Porsche 997 GT3. The rally is not just a showcase of speed; it’s also an opportunity for drivers like Jimmy D’hondt and Fred Miclotte to impress their home crowds with their Citroën C3 Rally2 and Skoda, respectively.
The Historics
Not to be overlooked are the rising stars in the Historic category, highlighted by the formidable Ford Escort Mk1 of defending champion Koen Verhaeghe. This fascinating competition welcomes a stunning array of retro rally cars, from the iconic rear-wheel drives of the 60s, 70s, and 80s to the new Youngtimer entrants—4×4 Gr.A vehicles from the 80s through the early 2000s, as well as atmospheric kit cars.
As the winter chill gives way to warmer months, all eyes will be on Dirk Deveux, a multiple Belgian champion, as he leads the charge in the Ford Sierra Cosworth 4×4. He will face spirited competition from Luc Pauwels in his Subaru Impreza Gr.A and regional favorite Nico Degroot with his Mitsubishi Lancer Evo6 Gr.A. The stage is set for a thrilling debut, as these racers gear up to etch their names in the annals of Belgian rallying history.
