The Alpine A110 Rally is set to leave its mark on the FORUM8 Rally Japan, the thrilling finale of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) season. For the first time in its history, this rallying icon will tackle roads beyond European soil, making its debut in the Land of the Rising Sun with a striking dragon-inspired livery celebrating Japanese culture.
Representing the Chazel Technologie Course team, the Belgian-French duo of Armand Fumal and Jules Escartefigue will pilot the #45 Alpine A110 Rally across the demanding stages of Toyota, Aichi Prefecture. Known for their dominance in the R-GT class, Fumal and Escartefigue bring not only experience but also the hunger to leave a lasting impression on this historic outing.
A proven contender, ready for a new frontier
Launched in 2020, the Alpine A110 Rally has already built a legendary resume. It has secured two FIA R-GT Cups, three FFSA French Two-Wheel Drive Rally Championships, and a Spanish Tarmac Rally Cup. With 46 outright wins and 162 podium finishes, the car has consistently outperformed even formidable four-wheel drive competitors.
This week, the A110 Rally takes its first steps outside Europe in a bid to conquer Japan’s challenging tarmac stages. Unbeaten in 12 R-GT class WRC appearances, it faces a fresh test on unfamiliar terrain, aiming to extend its dominance and bring Alpine’s legacy to new heights.
Drivers speak: A celebration of culture and performance
For Armand Fumal, the challenge is as much about performance as it is about honouring Japan’s culture: “After Monte Carlo and Central Europe, Japan completes the tarmac journey of the WRC calendar. The Alpine A110 Rally is unique. It catches the eye everywhere and stands out from its competitors. There is a genuine buzz around the car in the service parks and on the stages.
“We expect that to be the case again this week, where there will be a crowd of real enthusiasts. We were keen to honour Japanese culture, so we’ve chosen to boast a livery and racing suits reflecting it. I want to thank all our partners who made this project possible and the job Louis Chazel has done over the last year with WRC Promoter and Alpine Japan.
“From a racing point of view, we’ll do our best to shine in the two-wheel drive category!”
Dragon on the Tarmac: Japanese-inspired livery
The Alpine A110 Rally’s dragon livery takes centre stage, symbolizing power, agility, and respect for Japan’s cultural heritage. Adorned with a stylized dragon motif, the car turns heads both on and off the stages, cementing Alpine’s commitment to blending motorsport with local traditions.
Team Manager Louis Chazel** expressed his excitement about the event: “It’s an honour for us to take the Alpine A110 Rally to Japan for the first time. We’re all aware of the public’s enthusiasm for the brand, so this participation will be a highlight for us all.
“Armand, Jules, and I know this adventure poses challenges, particularly with the often changeable and tricky weather conditions. Still, we look forward to this unique experience and to show what the A110 can do on these roads.”
A packed rally week
The action begins with a shakedown and ceremonial start on Thursday, followed by the first of 21 special stages spread over a competitive distance of 302.59 kilometers. The rally concludes at Toyota Stadium on Sunday, providing fans with a front-row seat to this historic moment.
Alpine will make the most of its presence in Japan, engaging with fans and media through various activations, including showcasing an A110 at the Toyota Stadium service park. It’s a chance for Japanese fans to connect with Alpine’s modern rallying DNA, deeply rooted in the legacy of the iconic Berlinette.
A shared vision: Alpine and Japan
Nathan Matsuzak*, Alpine Cars Territory Manager, emphasized the cultural and historical significance of this debut: “We want to warmly thank Chazel Technologie Course for its involvement with Armand Fumal and Jules Escartefigue, as their presence at the event will provide a unique and authentic Alpine experience to Japanese customers and journalists.
“The Berlinette’s rally exploits in the 1970s resonate strongly in Japan too, so to see its modern reincarnation racing on Japanese roads will be a great moment for all of the brand’s Japanese fans.”
An unforgettable finish to the WRC season
The Alpine A110 Rally’s journey in Japan is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of motorsport, innovation, and cross-cultural connection. With a proven track record, a stunning dragon livery, and a determined team, this marks a new chapter in Alpine’s rallying legacy.
As the FORUM8 Rally Japan roars to life, the A110 Rally is ready to take on the roads of Aichi Prefecture, inspiring fans and competitors alike. Will the dragon soar to new heights in the Land of the Rising Sun? Stay tuned as the drama unfolds!