Achim Warmbold

Warmbold’s back-to-back WRC wins in 1973 gave him a unique place in rally history. Though he did not pursue a full-time WRC career afterward, his impact remained through mentorship and development roles.

• BMW 2002 Ti: His winning car during both of his 1973 WRC victories, proving its potential at the international level.
• Ford Escort RS: Competed in multiple rallies with this reliable and competitive machine throughout the early 1970s.
• Opel Kadett and Ascona: Used in national-level German rallies and early international appearances.

Warmbold had a strong reputation as a development driver who worked closely with engineers. His technical feedback helped teams refine car performance for both tarmac and rough gravel conditions.

Warmbold’s style was calculated, efficient, and technically sound. He was not the flashiest driver of his era, but he was reliable, methodical, and extremely focused — especially on longer endurance rallies. His legacy includes not only his victories, but also his post-driving career in supporting Germany’s motorsport infrastructure and mentoring the next generation of talent.

Warmbold partnered with co-driver Jean Todt early in Todt’s career — a duo that would become notable not only for their rally results but for Todt’s future ascent to leadership roles in motorsport. Their dynamic highlighted Warmbold’s disciplined communication and team-oriented mindset. Warmbold maintained a professional, cooperative environment within every team he joined, which was key to his sustained respect in the rally community.