MICHÈLE MOUTON’s WRC Wins Redefined Women’s Rally Racing Forever

September 6, 2026

• MICHÈLE MOUTON shattered barriers in 1981 Sanremo, becoming first woman to win a WRC round. Male competitors initially demanded technical inspections of her Alpine, finding nothing illegal in her dominant machinery.
• The French driver nearly captured the 1982 world title, finishing runner-up to Walter Röhrl after gearbox issues cost her over an hour in Côte d’Ivoire. Her three victories that season remain unmatched by women.
• MOUTON conquered Pikes Peak in 1985, breaking Al Unser’s outright record by 13 seconds despite officials forcing controversial starting procedures. She mastered the 12-mile Colorado climb with 530-bhp Group B Quattro.
• Co-driver FABRIZIA PONS partnered MOUTON through historic WRC campaigns, creating publicity value while delivering legitimate speed. Their Portugal win came through fog and dangerous spectator conditions in 1982 championship fight.
• MOUTON later founded Race of Champions and led FIA Women in Motorsport Commission until 2022. Her second-place championship finish remains the highest WRC result achieved by any woman driver.

audi quattro, fia world rally championship, group b, pikes peak