History 1990s

Gianfranco Cunico

Overview Achievements Vehicles Style & Legacy Teamwork

Overview

Gianfranco Cunico, born in 1957 in Vicenza, Italy, was one of the most successful Italian rally drivers of the 1990s. While not a full-time WRC contender, Cunico’s national dominance and skill on tarmac earned him respect across Europe. He became a three-time Italian Rally Champion and frequently appeared as a wildcard in World Rally Championship rounds, particularly in Italy. Known for his smooth driving and strong mechanical feel, Cunico proved he could challenge factory-backed stars when given the chance.

🏆 Major Achievements

Cunico’s Sanremo win remains one of the great privateer moments of the 1990s, proving national champions could punch above their weight on the world stage.

Vehicle Highlights

  • Ford Escort RS Cosworth: The car he used to win Rallye Sanremo and multiple national titles—well-balanced and responsive on tarmac.
  • Subaru Impreza Group A: Also campaigned successfully in national events during the mid-1990s.

Cunico’s mastery of the Escort Cosworth on twisty Italian roads was key to his Sanremo triumph and domestic reign.

Driving Style & Legacy

Cunico’s driving was defined by technical fluency, composure, and tarmac expertise. While he didn’t pursue a full WRC campaign, his occasional appearances were always competitive. He left a lasting mark on Italian motorsport as a model of professionalism and precision, and his Sanremo victory is still regarded as one of rallying’s great underdog achievements.

Navigation & Teamwork

Cunico partnered with co-driver Stefano Evangelisti through most of his competitive peak. Their experience together in national and WRC rallies gave them a refined rhythm, especially on the narrow and technical tarmac stages where pacenote precision was essential.

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