History 1990s

1999 Rally China (China)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1999 Rally China (China)

Date: September 17–19, 1999

Start Location: Shaoguan, Guangdong Province, China

Finish Location: Shaoguan, China

Total Distance: ~1,035 km (full route)

Competitive Stages: 387.96 km

Surface: Gravel

The 1999 Rally China returned to the WRC calendar with its signature mix of tricky gravel tracks, thick fog, and unpredictable weather. Didier Auriol took advantage of his clean and consistent driving style to dominate the event, claiming victory in conditions that caught many of his rivals off guard. The win reaffirmed Toyota’s competitiveness and Auriol’s reputation as one of the most adaptive drivers in the WRC field.

Route

Beijiang Loop: Narrow and twisty forest tracks with limited runoff and sudden surface changes.
Xinfeng Gorge: A technical test with deep fog and loose gravel that required careful pacenote use and cautious throttle work.
Ruyuan Hills: Fast, flowing sections broken up by sharp corners and ruts — ideal for car control and timing discipline.

Staged in the misty and mountainous areas of Guangdong, the rally featured gravel surfaces with varying grip and visibility. Key stages included:

Rain and heavy morning fog made many of the stages treacherous, especially for those running further back in the start order. Tire choice and conservative setups proved key to success.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Didier Auriol & Denis Giraudet · Toyota Corolla WRC
2nd Place
Juha Kankkunen & Juha Repo · Subaru Impreza WRC99
3rd Place
Freddy Loix & Sven Smeets · Mitsubishi Carisma GT Evo VI

Auriol’s composure and tire management gave him a decisive edge, while Kankkunen relied on experience to survive the fog, and Loix brought home another steady podium in unpredictable conditions.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Fog and Visibility: Multiple stages had sections with less than 10 meters visibility, requiring full trust in pacenotes and co-driver rhythm.
  • Surface Variation: From hard-packed clay to slick gravel, surface changes tested suspension tuning and line discipline.
  • Tire Strategy: Damp conditions and abrasive ruts made tire compound choice vital to maintaining grip without sacrificing endurance.

The 1999 Rally China was a test of control and calm under pressure. Didier Auriol’s flawless performance turned a chaotic and treacherous rally into a showcase of technical brilliance and veteran judgment.

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