History 1970s

1973 Rali Internacional TAP (Portugal)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 8º Rali Internacional TAP

Date: March 13–18, 1973

Host Country: Portugal

Surface: Mixed Asphalt / Gravel

Total Distance: 397.5 km (competitive)

Total Starters: 80 crews

Total Finishers: 23 crews

The 1973 TAP Rally tested the world’s top rally crews with narrow mountain roads, unpredictable surface transitions, and brutal attrition rates. With the event traversing from Lisbon through central Portugal’s interior, competitors faced both sun-drenched tarmac and loose gravel climbs. Thérier’s clinical driving and Jaubert’s precision guidance brought Alpine another World Rally Championship victory on Mediterranean soil.

Route

Mountain Roads: Tarmac climbs and descents riddled with blind corners and inconsistent grip.
Gravel Tracks: Dry, dusty stages with sharp stones, ruts, and heavy suspension wear.
River Crossings: Occasional shallow fords and slick bridges demanded line precision and reduced momentum.

The rally featured asphalt and gravel stages across central and northern Portugal, with long liaison sections and limited service opportunities heightening the challenge.

Warm weather and minimal rain kept dust swirling through gravel stages and encouraged aggressive tire choices from the start.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Jean-Luc Thérier & Jacques Jaubert · Alpine-Renault A110 1800
2nd Place
Ove Andersson & Arne Hertz · Alpine-Renault A110 1800
3rd Place
Rauno Aaltonen & Jean Todt · Fiat 124 Abarth Rally

Thérier’s composed pace and Alpine’s lightweight design proved unbeatable, giving the French team a hard-earned win on mixed Iberian surfaces that left many competitors stranded.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Surface Shifts: Abrupt transitions from fast tarmac to loose gravel demanded constant adjustment and braking discipline.
  • Mechanical Wear: Suspension damage and overheating were common due to stage length and heat buildup.
  • Driver Endurance: Long competitive days and high attrition demanded a careful balance between attack and preservation.

The 1973 TAP Rally was a classic blend of speed, survival, and adaptability—one that Thérier and Alpine conquered with elegant efficiency to strengthen their World Championship title hopes.

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