The tetraplegic driver from Romania brought his Renault Clio Rally5 home in 25th place in the ERC4 category having also finished the FIA European Rally Championship fixture at his previous two attempts.
With two runs through the 34.57-kilometre Torre di Cicerone and a double pass of the 30.59-kilometre Canterano – Subiaco run to content with, Lupu admitted the physical demands were greater than previously.
However, he made it to the finish in 61st overall among the ERC competitors with Vlad Colceriu co-driving.
Long stages added to the challenge for ERC4 regular Lupu
© ERC
“It was three very hot days of competition,” said Lupu. “The long stages were very difficult, the longest of my life, but we get through and the shorter stages I drive okay. But I was struggling with the heat. Coming over here each year for me is like doing an Ironman competition. I think everybody has this issue but even in December this rally would be hard.”
Catherine Rădulescu also flew the Romanian flag in ERC4 but the Rally di Roma Capitale rookie was forced to retire on the final leg with a mechanical issue.