Unforgettable Thrills: My First Ride with a World Rally Champion | DirtFish Experience

We’re nearly halfway through a three-mile route, surrounded by a thick fog. Everything looks like a swirling white cloud. It’s hard to see anything clearly, especially with a surprised journalist (me!) in the passenger seat instead of the usual expert, Martijn Wydaeghe.

“Houp-là!” Neuville suddenly exclaims. He realizes something surprising is about to happen, and it doesn’t take me long to catch on either. We’re approaching a turn—though it’s not the one he expected.

(By the way, “Houp-là” means “whoops” in English. My internet history is full of interesting searches just to find that out!)

Neuville swings the car sideways, but there’s not much he can do. The back end drifts toward the bank, the front spins around, and we find ourselves briefly facing the wrong way. I guess this twist adds a little extra excitement to the rally experience!

Despite the spin, my emotions remain surprisingly calm. My hands cling to my knees, frozen in place as I try to grasp what just happened. It feels like life is racing ahead while my brain is still back at the starting line, only catching up five minutes after we stop.

Neuville, on the other hand, shows no signs of stress. Even though this isn’t a competition, his poise is impressive. He quickly regains control, pulling on the handbrake and pressing the accelerator. The car struggles for grip, wheels spinning wildly, but he keeps calm and focused. Before long, we’re back in motion as if nothing happened.

With my eyes glued to Neuville’s expert maneuvering, I can’t help but admire his skill. Watching him work the controls is truly a treat. He dances the car through snowbanks like he’s training in Sweden, and the satisfying thump as we bounce off one feels exhilarating.

Fresh snow brushes against my face through the roof vent as the Hyundai powers down the road. In this moment, I’m not just Luke Barry, the rally journalist. I’m Luke Barry, a lifelong rally fan, and I can hardly believe the incredible access I have to this thrilling sport.

Source link

Rally1,ridealong,Thierry Neuville,WRC,WRC 2025