Rachele Somaschini’s dream, one she has pursued with relentless determination despite health and budget challenges, is now a reality. In 2025, the newly crowned Italian Women’s Rally Champion (for the fourth time) will compete in the FIA World Rally Championship‘s WRC2 series.
The young ambassador of the Italian Foundation for Research on Cystic Fibrosis (FCC), the genetic disease she has battled since birth, focused her 2024 season on national events (CIAR and TER Series) while undergoing an intensive 18-month pharmaceutical therapy (due to the end of mid-2025). Despite these challenges, she remained committed to her ambitious goals.
Her vision has materialized into a confirmed WRC2 programme featuring six rallies – the category dedicated to Rally2-spec cars – driving a Citroën C3 prepared by F.P.F. Sport under the RS Team banner. Nicola Arena, the seasoned co-driver who has played a key role in her development over the years, will continue to call the notes.
Following the iconic Rallye Monte-Carlo, the 2025 WRC season opener, the crew will tackle Sweden, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Finland. This diverse lineup of events will test their skills across varying conditions: from the treacherous roads of the French Alps and the frozen roads of Swedish Lapland to the twisty tarmac of the Canary Islands, the rugged Mediterranean gravel, and the lightning-fast forest tracks of the Finnish event, formerly known as the legendary Rally of the Thousand Lakes.
This ambitious challenge would not be possible without the steadfast support of key sponsors who have backed Somaschini for several seasons – Prima Assicurazioni, Bardahl, Mapei, SLF Abrasivi, Kemtec, Gruppo Meregalli – along with technical partner Sparco.
“I’m still overwhelmed by emotion and can hardly believe this is happening,” Rachele commented. “Becoming a rally driver was my childhood dream. Achieving this has taken immense dedication and passion. Yet, I’ve always felt the urge to prove myself at the highest level. Despite my health struggles, that moment has arrived, and I am deeply grateful to all the partners who believed in me and made this dream come true.”
“I know from past experiences, such as Monte-Carlo entries and European Championship events, that competing at this level demands even greater preparation, dedication, and effort. I intend to give my absolute best, knowing the competition will be fierce. Moreover, this is a fantastic opportunity to bring the message of #CorrerePerUnRespiro (the charity initiative supporting cystic fibrosis research) to a global audience through RallyTV Live and multiple distribution platforms.”
“Achieving this milestone means the world to me. I sincerely thank everyone who helped make it possible. I also plan to participate in select Italian events throughout the season to stay sharp and maintain a connection with our passionate home fans.”
Rachele’s WRC adventure will officially begin on Thursday, January 23, at 14:30, with the ceremonial start of the legendary Rallye Monte-Carlo from the iconic Place du Casino. The rally will challenge drivers over four days, featuring 18 special stages covering 343.8 km through the French Alps, culminating in Monaco on Sunday, January 26, with the prize-giving ceremony.
To support the #CorrerePerUnRespiro project, visit correreperunrespiro.itfor charity gifts or donation options.