Partnership launches at Rallye Elba Storico as François Delecour and Fabrice Gordon target the Pre-2000 crown in the Peugeot 306 Maxi IKE
IKE Racing and IXO Modelcars will launch their new partnership at Rallye Elba Storico, where François Delecour and Fabrice Gordon will have the opportunity to secure the FIA European Historic Rally Championship’s Pre-2000 title.
The Michelin-shod Peugeot 306 Maxi will carry IXO Modelcars colours for the final two rounds of the championship, bringing together a legendary driver, an experienced racing team and a brand with deep roots in rallying.
Part of PCT Group, IXO Modelcars produces scale models and collectibles that bring automotive and motorsport history to life. Rallying is central to its identity, making the partnership with IKE Racing - and the return of Delecour behind the wheel of the iconic 306 Maxi - a natural fit.
Bernard Peres, Founder and CEO of PCT Group, said: “Rallying is at the heart of IXO Modelcars, and this new partnership brings our passion for the sport onto the stages. We’re thrilled to join forces with François Delecour, a true rally legend, and the experienced IKE Racing team. Seeing the iconic Peugeot 306 Maxi carry our colours for the final two rounds of the FIA European Historic Rally Championship will be a proud moment for everyone at IXO. It’s an opportunity to strengthen our presence in the world of rallying, which inspires our models, and share that excitement with collectors and fans worldwide.”
For IKE Racing founder Andrea “ZIPPO” Zivian, who has devoted considerable effort to rebuilding the 306 Maxi from the ground up, the partnership recognizes both the team’s work and its ambition.
“I am delighted with this agreement, which is built on a shared passion for a golden era of rallying and the cars and drivers that captured the hearts of fans worldwide,” said Zivian. “Following the support of Michelin and TotalEnergies, this partnership is a tremendous endorsement of our efforts. Our aim is to reward that confidence by winning the title.
“Although François has never competed at Rallye Elba, his vast experience, together with the knowledge gained from my four appearances here and Michelin’s crucial support, will help us tackle the varied and demanding route.”
Elba will provide a challenging setting for the partnership’s debut. Long special stages, changing grip levels and contrasting asphalt surfaces across the island demand precise preparation. Finding the right set-up and making the correct tyre choices will be essential on roads that range from highly grippy to exceptionally slippery.
For Delecour, the 1993 World Rally Championship runner-up, and co-driver Gordon, those decisions could prove decisive. Having led the Pre-2000 standings since winning on their debut at Rally Vltava, the crew now arrives on the Tuscan island with the championship crown within reach.
Rallye Elba Storico begins on Thursday, 24 September, at 20:00, with the opening 10.48 km “Capoliveri” special stage. Nine further stages follow on Friday and Saturday, bringing the competitive distance to 140.8 km within a total route of 415.77 km. The rally concludes in Capoliveri’s historic centre on Saturday, 26 September, with the podium ceremony scheduled for 16:30.
Photo The IKE Racing Peugeot 306 Maxi in its new IXO Modelcars livery.
