Philippe Bugalski facts for kids
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| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Nationality |  French |
| Born | 12 June 1963 |
| Died | 10 August 2012 (aged 49) |
| World Rally Championship record | |
| Active years | 1984–2004 |
| Co-driver | Dominique Perruchon Jean-Marc Andrié Denis Giraudet Thierry Renaud Jean-Paul Chiaroni |
| Teams | Citroën, Renault |
| Rallies | 36 |
| Rally wins | 2 |
| Podiums | 4 |
| Stage wins | 27 |
| Total points | 56 |
| First rally | 1984 Monte Carlo Rally |
| First win | 1999 Rallye Catalunya |
| Last win | 1999 Tour de Corse |
| Last rally | 2003 Rallye Catalunya |
Philippe Bugalski (born June 12, 1963 – died August 10, 2012) was a famous French rally driver. Rallying is a type of car racing where drivers race on public or private roads. These roads often have challenging conditions like dirt, gravel, or snow. Philippe was known for his amazing skills behind the wheel, especially on tarmac (paved) roads.
Contents
Philippe Bugalski's Rally Career
Starting with Renault
Philippe Bugalski began his professional rally career in 1994. He joined the official Renault team in the French Rally Championship. This was an important step for him in the world of car racing.
Joining Citroën and National Wins
In 1998, Philippe moved to the Citroën team. This was a big change that led to great success. He became a champion, winning the French national rally title three years in a row. He held the title from 1998 to 2000.
Becoming a Tarmac Specialist
As Citroën became a major team in the World Rally Championship (WRC), Philippe often raced for them. He was known as a "tarmac specialist." This means he was especially good at racing on paved roads. He often competed in races like the Tour de Corse in France, the Rallye Sanremo in Italy, and the Rallye Catalunya in Spain.
His Big Wins in 1999
The year 1999 was very special for Philippe Bugalski. He won two major WRC races that year. He won the Rallye Catalunya in Spain and the Tour de Corse in France. He achieved these victories using a special "Formula 2" car.
Later Career and Retirement
After his big wins, Philippe continued to be a valuable driver for Citroën. He was often a reserve driver, ready to step in for tarmac rallies. By 2003, he decided to stop professional rallying.
Philippe Bugalski's Passing
Philippe Bugalski passed away on August 10, 2012, when he was 49 years old. He died from injuries after falling out of a tree at his home.
WRC Victories
Philippe Bugalski won two World Rally Championship events during his career. These wins were a highlight of his time in rallying.
| # | Event | Season | Co-driver | Car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  35º Rallye Catalunya-Costa Brava |
1999 | Jean-Paul Chiaroni | Citroën Xsara Kit Car |
| 2 | 43ème Tour de Corse – Rallye de France |
1999 | Jean-Paul Chiaroni | Citroën Xsara Kit Car |
