🏁 Rally Lamia 2026 – A Test of Endurance for Capspeed Motorsport
The Rally Lamia that took place last weekend (21-22/3/2026) marked the opening round of this season’s rally championship—an event both demanding and unpredictable. With six particularly challenging special stages, constantly changing conditions, and continuous challenges, the Capspeed Motorsport crew proved in practice what passion, perseverance, and racing mentality truly mean.
The team competed with driver Konstantinos Kapourelakos and co-driver Georgia Zabeli, managing to complete the rally with outstanding results: 3rd place in category F2E and 1st place in category E11, despite the adversity faced from start to finish.
🔧 A Difficult Start
On Saturday at noon, the team successfully passed scrutineering, with everything looking ready for the start. However, shortly after, an issue was detected with the fuel float. The response was immediate and crucial, as thanks to the valuable help of Dimitris Kougias—who promptly brought a replacement part from Lamia—the issue was resolved in time, allowing the crew to continue without delay.
🌙 Night Stage and Early Setbacks
The first special stage in Moschokarya took place at night, increasing the level of difficulty. A navigation mistake cost valuable time, followed by a front-left tire puncture that further complicated the situation. Nevertheless, the crew managed to finish the stage with the damaged tire and replaced it immediately after the finish.
⚠️ No Brakes… But Full Determination
The following day began with a positive mindset on the Ypati and Moschokarya stages. However, the situation quickly became critical. Upon reaching the Monastiri area, the crew realized the car had completely lost its brakes.
Faced with a difficult decision—continue or retire—the choice was clear: “we go on, no matter what.” With exceptional driving skill and full control, Konstantinos Kapourelakos managed to bring the car safely to the end of the stage.
At service, it was discovered that a brake caliper was leaking fluid from the piston. The solution was risky but necessary: isolating the rear brakes and continuing the rally.
⚙️ Mechanical Issues Until the End
The fourth stage in Ypati went relatively smoothly, considering the existing issues. However, in the following Moschokarya stage, another serious problem emerged: the gearbox began malfunctioning, refusing to engage 4th gear and shifting unpredictably.
The final stage proved to be the toughest of all. With no rear brakes and a gearbox behaving erratically, the crew fought a true battle for survival.
🏆 A Finish Worth a Victory
Despite all the problems, Capspeed Motorsport made it to the finish, proving that rallying is not only about speed, but also about endurance, strategy, and determination.
The 3rd place in F2E and 1st place in E11 carry even greater significance considering the conditions under which they were achieved.
For Capspeed Motorsport, Rally Lamia 2026 was not just another race. It was a statement.
Racing is not a hobby. It’s a standard. 🏁
We would like to sincerely thank the service crew, Yacco Greece, and the engine workshop Original Michalis Parasyrakis for being our partners in this race as well!
