The 83-year-old driver from La Palma, adopted by Gran Canaria, was the first champion of an event that is now part of the world championship calendar. Pérez, born in Garafía in 1942, recalls his beginnings in motorsport and how adrenaline and the smell of gasoline marked his life.
With 101 victories under his belt, both in the archipelago and on the mainland, Medardo Pérez established himself as one of the most outstanding drivers in the Canary Islands. His name was etched in history by winning the first two editions of the Rally Islas Canarias, an event that in a few weeks will turn the island territory into the epicenter of the motor world.
“"It must be emphasized that I was the first winner of the Rally Islas Canarias because they are starting to count from when El Corte Inglés gave it its name. In reality, in '73 I already won an Islas Canarias, but let's leave it at that."
Pérez highlights his winning mentality and meticulous preparation, dedicating hours to reconnoitering stages and working on the road, while other colleagues relaxed. This dedication allowed him to face drivers of the caliber of Carlos Sainz and Antonio Zannini without being intimidated.
Canarian motorsport has evolved significantly since Medardo Pérez's time. He emphasizes the professionalization of the sport and the importance of safety, which has transformed the experience for both drivers and fans. Despite the changes, the essence of the routes remains, with stages that current world rally drivers continue to use.
The conversion of the Rally Islas Canarias into a World Rally Car event is, according to Pérez, an incredible achievement, largely attributed to Pepe Germán and the collaboration of all the islands. This milestone ensures the rally's presence in the world calendar for several more years.
