Tony Fassina

Fassina’s Sanremo victory solidified his legacy and demonstrated that with talent and preparation, privateers could still challenge the sport’s elite during the late WRC Group 4 era.

• Lancia Stratos HF: Fassina’s weapon of choice for his most famous win — a car he drove with finesse and tactical brilliance.
• Opel Ascona: Piloted in earlier domestic seasons, helping him establish himself as a serious contender in Italy.
• Fiat 131 Abarth: Used in selected events where the Stratos wasn’t optimal, showcasing his adaptability.

Fassina’s bond with the Stratos remains legendary. Despite being a privateer, his understanding of the car’s balance, powerband, and braking behavior allowed him to match — and surpass — factory performance.

Fassina’s style was precise, composed, and highly efficient — ideal for twisty Italian tarmac stages. He drove with a clear plan and was known for managing tires and mechanics expertly across multi-day events. His underdog victory inspired countless national-level drivers and remains a milestone in the history of privateer rallying. To this day, his Sanremo triumph is remembered as one of the great David-versus-Goliath moments in the WRC.

Fassina’s co-driver Mauro Mannini played a crucial role in their Sanremo victory. Their partnership was built on mutual respect and flawless pacenote precision — particularly important in the complex Italian mountain stages. Fassina’s appreciation for team effort extended to his mechanics and engineers, whom he credited publicly, emphasizing the spirit and professionalism that made his privateer campaign successful.