The world of rallying witnessed an exhilarating showdown at the recent Rally Tasmania, where Lewis Bates and his co-driver, Anthony McLoughlin, emerged victorious after a thrilling battle. This marks their first triumph since the 2025 season opener, a win that catapulted them to the top of the standings.
In a season-opening endurance round, the duo secured a hard-fought victory by a mere 13 seconds over their closest competitors, Scott Pedder and Glenn Macneall, driving the formidable Skoda Fabia Rally2. Lewis Bates expressed his elation, emphasizing the significance of their consistent performance throughout the entire weekend.
"It's a fantastic feeling to win, especially after such a long time. We've been working tirelessly to achieve this, and finally putting together a flawless weekend is incredibly satisfying."
The race was characterized by intense battles, particularly with Bates' brother, Harry, and his co-driver, Coral Taylor, who unfortunately crashed out on Saturday. This incident not only affected their performance but also highlighted the unpredictability and high stakes of rallying.
"It's always a bittersweet moment when a fellow competitor faces such adversity. Harry and Coral were on a roll before their incident, and their pace was truly impressive. It's a reminder of the fine line between victory and defeat in this sport."
The Bates brothers' rivalry added an extra layer of excitement to the rally, with Lewis and Anthony securing another Power Stage victory. Their success can be attributed to the support and hard work of the entire Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia team.
"The team's dedication and support have been instrumental in our success. We're grateful for their unwavering commitment, especially in the face of such intense competition."
With two rounds remaining, Lewis and Anthony find themselves atop the standings, a position they aim to maintain as they navigate the unpredictable nature of rallying. The podium was rounded out by the Pedders duo, Jackson and Damien Long, with the latter achieving a remarkable milestone.
"For Damien Long, this podium finish is a testament to his enduring passion and skill. It's a remarkable achievement, especially considering the gap between his last podium appearance and this one."
As the EROAD Australian Rally Championship moves towards its penultimate round in Adelaide Hills, the excitement and anticipation among fans and competitors alike are palpable. The battle for the championship title promises to be an intense and closely fought affair, with the potential for unexpected twists and turns.
"The upcoming rounds will be crucial, and we can expect an even more intense battle as the season draws to a close. The margins are tight, and every stage will be a test of skill, strategy, and resilience."
