In the 50th edition of the TAC Rally held in Tielt, Vincent Verschueren, piloting his Citroën C3 Rally2, emerged as the clear victor among the 62 competing teams. This marked Verschueren’s third triumph in Tielt, a testament to his deft handling and strategic prowess as he maintained the fastest pace from the outset.
A Race of Strategy and Precision
Right from the opening round, Verschueren forged a significant lead, clocking a 13-second advantage over last year’s champion, Niels Reynvoet, who had opted for softer tire compounds. Verschueren’s choice of harder tires allowed him to exert control, steadily widening the gap. By the conclusion of the rally, he secured victory with a formidable 19.2-second lead. “I felt confident from Thursday’s shakedown; we had achieved an excellent set-up,” remarked an elated Verschueren. “Winning my home rally for the third time fills me with pride, especially since I have cherished memories of attending the TAC Rally with my father during my youth.” His success was made all the more special as it coincided with his co-driver Mathieu Vynckier’s memorable 49th birthday.
Reynvoet Reflects on Missed Opportunities
Niels Reynvoet, steering his Hyundai i20 N Rally2, concluded the race in second place. “I lost my grip during the initial lap due to an unsuitable tire choice and a brief hold-up caused by Fred Miclotte, who was limping towards the finish with a damaged wheel. Vincent was simply a touch quicker today, and I opted not to push harder in the final loop,” he reflected, underscoring the delicate balance of risk and strategy that defines rally racing.
The Battle for Third Place
The contest for the final podium spot became fiercely competitive. Nicola Stampaert, who celebrated his first fastest stage time in the Belgian championship, succumbed to a late miscalculation. “I aimed for the podium but misjudged a braking zone, resulting in an unfortunate collision with a tree. A puncture further set us back by two minutes, yet I take satisfaction in our pace today,” Stampaert noted with restrained optimism.
With Cédric Cherain’s minor slip in his Jobfixers Porsche, the door opened for the 21-year-old Lander Depotter, who proudly claimed third place, his inaugural podium finish in the Belgian championship. “We entered this rally primarily to gain experience, so achieving third place is simply sublime. This was also my first outing at the TAC, a rally famous for its tricky, slippery asphalt,” Depotter expressed.
Noteworthy Performances through the classes
Cédric Cherain, called up at the last minute as a replacement for the ailing PJM Cracco, delivered a remarkable performance in his Porsche 991 GT3, securing a commendable fourth place. Tim Van Parijs also showcased his abilities with a strong fifth-place finish in his Porsche 997 GT3. Robin Maes finished sixth in his consistent Skoda, while Thibaud Mazuin, competing on an unfamiliar course, marked his return with notable resilience.
In the historical category, Paul Lietaer stood unmatched, while Sascha Oosterlinck celebrated his first victory in the Youngtimer BRC. Stefaan T’joens claimed the top position in the 2WD Trophy, and Jeroen Catelin clinched victory and the associated bonuses in the BRC Trophy, driving his Renault Clio Rally5.
