The rally world has lost one of its true originals with the passing of Sandro Munari at the age of 85.
For many, Munari wasn’t just a champion — he was the face of an era. In the golden days of rallying, when bravery, instinct and mechanical sympathy meant everything, he stood out. Nicknamed “Il Drago,” he drove with a rare combination of intelligence and controlled aggression that made him both spectacular and effective.
His name will forever be linked with the iconic Lancia Stratos HF — a car as wild and charismatic as the man who mastered it. Together, they became one of rallying’s most unforgettable partnerships, conquering the legendary Rallye Monte-Carlo multiple times and writing their place into motorsport folklore.
In 1977, Munari secured the FIA Cup for Rally Drivers — the forerunner to today’s World Rally Championship title — confirming his status as one of the sport’s elite competitors. But statistics alone don’t explain his impact. It was the way he carried himself: proud, passionate, deeply connected to the machinery and the moment.
Beyond the trophies, Munari represented something bigger — a generation that helped shape modern rallying. Even long after his competitive days were over, he remained a beloved presence in historic events and among fans who never forgot what he gave to the sport.
With his passing, rallying loses not just a champion, but a symbol of its adventurous spirit. His legacy will continue to echo through mountain passes, snowy stages and the unmistakable roar of a Stratos at full attack.
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