The list of early WRC champions from the inaugural series in 1979 is a rallying hall of fame: Rohrl, Vatanen, Mikkola, Blomqvist, Salonen, Kankkunen. But the man who was there before all of them was
Bjorn Waldegard
, the first man to win the WRC in 1979 and who sadly passed away last week.
And as names in world rallying go, his perhaps isn't quite as revered as the other in that list. Given his achievement that seems a little unjust. So thanks to YouTube we can honour the Swede properly and appreciate his talent.
Moreover, this video of the 1977 RAC rally is a treat for all rallying fans and not just those of Waldegard. There are Escorts, Celicas and a Stratos or two sideways through everywhere through muddy forests. Keep a look out too for the special stage at Oulton Park and an Escort three-wheeling through Lodge...
Waldegard drives the #5 British Airways Escort RS1800 and is at his powersliding best throughout. And if there's not enough sideways 70s rallying goodness, be sure to check out part one of this two-part highlights reel.