Rally Experience: Mike Chen Takes on Monza in Championship-Winning Machine
The iconic Monza Rally, presented by Pirelli, served as the backdrop for an extraordinary motorsport crossover as Rally.TV presenter Mike Chen stepped out of the commentary box and into the driver’s seat of a championship-winning rally car.
The Championship Car
Chen had the rare opportunity to pilot Hayden Paddon’s Hyundai i20 N Rally2 – the very machine that secured the 2023 FIA European Rally Championship. This exceptional vehicle represents:
- Latest Rally2 specification
- Championship-winning pedigree
- Professional-grade racing technology
- Full rally preparation
Supporting a Noble Cause
The driving experience carried special significance as it was conducted in support of the Craig Breen Foundation. This added a meaningful dimension to Chen’s participation, honoring the legacy of professional rallying.
"Taking on Monza in a championship-winning car is both a privilege and a humbling experience, especially when it serves a greater purpose through the Craig Breen Foundation."
Competition Context
The event placed Chen in direct comparison with:
- WRC2 professional drivers
- ERC championship contenders
- International rally specialists
- Experienced Monza Rally veterans
Performance Metrics
The following table illustrates the key aspects of the challenge:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | Hyundai i20 N Rally2 |
| Event | Monza Rally |
| Category | Rally2 Class |
| Previous Driver | Hayden Paddon |
| Championship | 2023 ERC Winner |
Technical Challenge
The transition from commentator to competitor highlighted several key aspects:
- Professional-grade rally machinery operation
- High-performance driving techniques
- Rally stage navigation
- Competition-level pressure management
"The Hyundai i20 N Rally2 represents the pinnacle of customer rally car technology, demanding precise input and absolute focus from any driver."
Historical Significance
The Monza Rally carries particular weight in the rally community:
-
Prestigious Venue
- Formula 1 circuit integration
- Mixed surface challenges
- Technical complexity
-
Competition Level
- International driver participation
- Professional team presence
- Championship implications
-
Technical Requirements
- Precise vehicle control
- Strategic pace management
- Weather adaptation capabilities
This unique experience brought together multiple facets of rallying, from professional competition to charitable support, all while showcasing the capabilities of championship-winning machinery at one of motorsport’s most storied venues.
