Nelson Panciatici aboard the Citroen DS3
World Series by Renault regular Nelson Panciatici will make his WRC debut at this month’s Rally Monte Carlo, behind the wheel of an Automeca Citroen DS3 R3.
In preparation for the event, Panciatici drove a Ford Fiesta R2 in last November’s Rallye du Var – the season finale of the French Rally Championship. However he will now step into the DS3 for a pre-rally test in the Chambery region of France to acclimatise himself to the new machinery, under the guidance of Automeca team principal and former Citroen works driver Philippe Bugalski.
“The Rallye du Var was a thrilling experience, I had an incredible time, and as soon as I had finished, I wanted to do the Monte Carlo,” said Panciatici. “I know it won't be easy, especially if it snows because I don't know that surface but I have my co-driver, René Padovani, at my side. His help was invaluable in the Rallye du Var and he will know how to train me up fast.
“My first and foremost reason to be there is for pleasure, but that won’t stop me from taking it seriously. I will do my utmost to get the best possible result and put on a good race.”
