At this year’s Vodafone Rally de Portugal, Diogo Salvi stands out as the only Portuguese driver competing in the top tier of the WRC, something that hasn’t happened since 2012. At 55 years old, this IT entrepreneur decided to fulfil a long-held dream: driving a Rally1 car — a Ford Puma from M-Sport.
For Salvi, this isn’t about results or records, but about enjoying the moment and the thrill of competing at the highest level of the World Rally Championship.
When did you realise you wanted to drive a Rally1 car?
I’ve always dreamed of doing the rally in a Rally1 car, side by side with the best drivers in the world. When the opportunity came up, I didn’t hesitate. This car is, without a doubt, the best in terms of performance, handling — everything.
It’s a gift I’m giving myself, though I know I might even be slower than I was with the Skoda Rally2 I previously drove, as I’ll be doing the rally with just a short test before the start.
Is this the end of a journey or the beginning of more WRC appearances?
I really hope this is the first of many. My company is my life project, but it’s kept me from doing many other things I love. Fortunately, I have an amazing team and I’m working on passing the torch.
Once that process is complete, I want to start doing more in life — like climbing, and especially more rallies, particularly international events. That’s definitely my goal.
If you were to make a film about your Rally1 debut, who would direct it and who would play you?
The late Miloš Forman. A filmmaker I always deeply admired — I even had the opportunity to meet him in person. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen because of a meeting I couldn’t miss — and I truly regret it.
As for the actor? I’d play myself. For one reason only: to get to know myself even better.
If you could add a secret button to the Puma Rally1 steering wheel, what would it do?
Without a doubt, a weather control button! I’d love to have a direct line to Saint Peter to avoid rain. It would be frustrating not to fully enjoy the performance of this incredible car because of tricky weather conditions.
How would you explain the appeal of the WRC to someone who’s never seen a rally before?
That’s a tough one, because the emotions and sensations are hard to put into words. In an age ruled by digital platforms, rallying offers a raw and real experience.
It’s the chance to witness machines and drivers pushing the limits of physics, in breathtaking settings, to hear the roar of the engines and feel the adrenaline of the competition live.
It’s more than just sport — it’s a social and family event, where people come together to experience the action up close and even meet the drivers.
Unlike circuit racing, rallying brings the sport to the landscape, making each stage unique.
If you could take someone in the car with you — not a co-driver — who would it be and why?
I’d take one of the people I care about most — probably one of my kids. Sharing such an intense and special experience with them would be unforgettable, and a way of passing on my passion for motorsport.
If you could get all WRC drivers to try a Portuguese dish, what would it be?
Arroz de cabidela, without a doubt. I’m from the North of Portugal, where the passion for rallying is huge, and this traditional dish represents the authenticity and flavour of our region. I believe it would be a unique gastronomic experience for them.
Do you have a message for young Portuguese drivers dreaming of Rally1?
To all the young Portuguese drivers out there: everything in life takes dedication and hard work.
It’s important to look beyond our borders, because Portugal, being a small country, naturally offers fewer opportunities. Get inspired by the best, learn from them and always aim higher. The dream is possible — with effort and perseverance.