Philippe Bugalski

Philippe Bugalski

Philippe Bugalski was born on June 12th, 1963

Full Name: Philippe Bugalski
Place of Birth: Vernon, France
Profession: Racing Driver
Racing Series: World Rally Championship
Teams: Citroën, Toyota
Co-Driver: Jean-Paul Chiaroni
Wins: 2
Podiums: 13

French rally driver who won the European Rally Championship twice and had multiple WRC podiums, known for his exceptional skills on asphalt.

Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood

Philippe Bugalski: The Tarmac Terror of French Rallying

Philippe Bugalski, born on June 12, 1963, in Cusset, France, was a force to be reckoned with in the world of rallying. This French rally driver made a name for himself as a master of tarmac rallies, earning him the nickname "The Tarmac Terror."

A Career of Speed and Skill

Bugalski's career in rallying began in the early 1990s, but it wasn't until 1994 that he became a works Renault driver in the French Rally Championship. This marked the start of his journey to becoming a renowned tarmac specialist. In 1998, he joined the works Citroën team, with whom he would go on to win the French national title three years in a row, from 1998 to 2000.

A Regular Choice for Citroën

By the mid-1990s, Bugalski had become a regular choice as tarmac specialist for Citroën, alongside teammate Jesús Puras. As the Citroën Total World Rally Team entered the World Rally Championship full-time, employing drivers like Sébastien Loeb, Bugalski was frequently entered as Citroën's 3rd driver for tarmac rallies.

Tarmac Triumphs and Top Performances

Bugalski's top performances were on home soil, on the Tour de Corse, where he would often leave the competition in his dust. He also showed great potential in the Rallye Sanremo, Monte Carlo Rally, and Rallye Catalunya.

A Break from the Fast Lane

After his breakthrough, Bugalski struggled to secure a firm place in Citroën's WRC team, but he remained a solid reserve driver, always ready to step in as a tarmac specialist. By 2003, he had stopped rallying professionally, leaving behind a legacy of speed and skill on the tarmac.

A Tragic End to a Thrilling Life

On August 10, 2012, Bugalski's life came to a tragic end when he fell out of a tree at his home in Seine-et-Marne. He was just 49 years old. The rallying world was left in shock, mourning the loss of a true legend.

Legacy of Speed and Skill

Today, Philippe Bugalski's name is still whispered in awe by rally enthusiasts around the world. His nickname, "The Tarmac Terror," is a testament to his skills on the asphalt. Though his life was cut short, his legacy will continue to inspire and thrill generations to come.

Timeline
1962
Born in France
Philippe Bugalski was born on June 12, 1962, in Lyon, France.
1984
Started Racing Career
Bugalski started his racing career, competing in various national and international events.
1993
Won French Rally Championship
Bugalski won the French Rally Championship, marking a major milestone in his racing career.
1999
Competed in World Rally Championship
Bugalski competed in the World Rally Championship, driving for the Citroën team and achieving several podium finishes.
2003
Retired from Racing
Bugalski retired from professional racing, ending a 20-year career that saw him achieve significant success in various rally championships.
Philippe Bugalski

Philippe Bugalski Quiz

What type of rally surfaces was Philippe Bugalski known for excelling on?

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FAQ
What are Philippe Bugalskis notable racing achievements?
Philippe Bugalski is a French racing driver with numerous achievements, including winning the European Rally Championship in 1995 and 1996, and finishing second in the World Rally Championship in 1996.
What teams has Philippe Bugalski driven for?
Philippe Bugalski has driven for several teams throughout his career, including the Citroën World Rally Team, the Renault World Rally Team, and the Peugeot Esso Silver Team.
How did Philippe Bugalski get started in racing?
Philippe Bugalski started his racing career in the early 1980s, competing in local racing events in France. He eventually moved on to the French Rally Championship, where he won the championship in 1989.
What is Philippe Bugalskis most iconic car?
Philippe Bugalski is often associated with the Citroën Xsara Kit Car, which he drove to numerous victories in the World Rally Championship and the European Rally Championship.
Is Philippe Bugalski still active in racing?
Philippe Bugalski has retired from professional racing, but he still participates in occasional rally events and racing demonstrations, often driving historic cars.

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