43rd Allianz Rallye

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

Those who visit this year’s Allianz Mecsek Rallye will be able to see quick period cars. The stunt car from the „Back to Future” sequel will not be present, however real historic rally cars will visit Pécs. The organiser was granted the opportunity to host one of the events of the European Historic Sporting Rally Championship, which acknowledges the internationally respectable event and the Hungarian Rally.

The historic rally cars, which will race on the hilly roads of Baranya County, could not be seen during their glory days. These cars raced mostly on the free side of the iron curtain, only to be seen in car magazines smuggled through the border. The age of these cars doesn’t automatically mean any disadvantage, as due to the careful maintenance and passion of the owners their performance is still outstanding.

Grateful acknowledgements are due to organisers as well as the competitors, for they have brought a unique moving exhibition on the history of technology to the European Capitol of Culture. On top of this the spectators cannot only cast their eyes on the curvy bodywork, the incredible suspension or the charming steering wheel of these cars, but also have the opportunity of crossing their fingers for their favourites. I am certain that the European Historic Sporting Rally Championship will provide an extraordinary experience for all who follow the event.

I wish the competitors to have an accident-free, successful event and happy cheering for the spectators.

Erik Bánki
Chairman of the Sport and Tourism Committee of the Hungarian Parliament