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He was only 12 years old when he started driving karts in national and international competitions. At 18, he tried rallying in his native Madeira, a sport that marked more than a decade of his life, during which he accumulated dozens of achievements. At 37 years old, Bernardo Sousa still does not miss the Madeira Wine Rally, now on the other side of the car, but he still maintains a wealth of knowledge that allows him to watch the competition from the inside even when he is not behind the wheel.
From the most difficult sections to the complex preparations, from tense moments to decompression, experienced pilots will show the public at SAPO what is usually not seen. Guided tours in daily videos, through Madeira Wine Rally (RVM)daily attention.
In an interview with SAPO, the driver tells how he arrived in the wonderful world of racing and what it feels like to race “at home”, during a career that has seen moments of glory but also difficulties, such as finding support to compete internationally.
Bernardo has almost 20 years of rally experience. How did this passion for racing begin?
It started when I was very young, I remember my father putting me on his lap behind the wheel at a very young age, on our street, and he got me into karting when I was six or seven years old. My father sponsored several teams and drivers at the time, and we went to watch rallies together. It was logical that the love for racing was in my blood and I was going to “hit it”…
What were the main difficulties you faced during your journey as a pilot?
It’s a very expensive sport and requires total commitment. When I was younger it was hard to balance my studies (something my opponents didn’t do)… but the biggest difficulty was the support. Especially at international competitions because our sporting culture is very football focused. Luckily times have changed!
Despite the odds, he has had notable successes, including multiple honors in the National Rally Championship. What is your most memorable victory?
Winning the European and World Championships is no easy feat, and I am the youngest rally champion ever in Portugal, which shows in my good results. That makes it difficult to answer this question. But I would probably have to say the 2011 World Cup win in Jordan. That was the most memorable experience.
What is the most stressful moment for a driver: before getting in the car or during the more complex sections of the race?
The most tense moment is right before the special starts, when the body really realizes that we are about to start; then the adrenaline takes over. Once it starts, it will pass. We often say that when we put on our helmets, there is a switch in our heads that turns everything off and we “forget about the world.” Everything will pass.
What was the hardest part you’ve ever done?
This could be the last change for the Azores Rally, counting towards the European Championship. Our gap to second place was very small and we had to set a very high pace to keep winning.
Is there a rally you regret never trying?
I guess I just need to check out the Monte Carlo portion of the game.
What is the most important thing for a driver to achieve good results: talent, training, a good car or a united team…?
All of these factors are essential to ensure that the conditions are met to achieve a good outcome. And hopefully, luck is on our side.
For a Madeiran like Bernardo, does running in the RVM have a special flavour?
This is the most difficult gathering to contain the emotions. From the accents of our land to the family and friends we have in the room. It is very special…
What are your expectations for this year’s RVM?
This will surely be one of the best editions ever. There are excellent entry lists in all categories and several candidates to fight for the victory.
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