From a young age, Akis Ellinas was captivated by the thrill of driving in challenging conditions and the technical finesse that rallying demands.
“At first,” says the Director of K. Ellinas Energy, a company engaged in large-scale renewable and conventional energy projects, “it was all about the excitement and the passion for the sport. That’s why I was always trackside, a loyal fan at local races and, most of all, the Cyprus Rally, which for years featured on the World Rally Championship calendar.”
While time constraints and the demands of his business prevented serious involvement behind the wheel, rallying became a lifelong source of joy and inspiration. Over the years, its discipline, preparation and teamwork came to hold deeper meaning.
Rally driving, he says, has profoundly shaped his approach to leadership and decision-making. The need to remain calm under pressure and think fast has trained him to assess situations quickly and to trust both his instincts and those of his team.
“Modern rallying is nothing like it was in the past. Today’s cars are far more technically advanced, heavily reliant on sophisticated software. The whole operation runs like a well-oiled business,” he explains. Every detail must be executed with precision – from the accuracy of pace notes to car inspections and team coordination. “Managing a rally team requires clear communication and confidence in every person’s role, much like managing a business,” he adds.
The psychological demands of the sport have also been instructive. Navigating unpredictable terrain at speed calls for a strong character, quick judgement and confidence – qualities that translate directly into high-stakes leadership. “It teaches you to stay focused through stress and complexity, to make critical decisions even when mentally fatigued,” he says. “That mental discipline has sharpened my ability to lead effectively under pressure in business.”
For Ellinas, rallying is more than a sport; it’s a passion and an art form, which can only be truly understood through experience. “It offers a healthy counterbalance to the stress of work,” he notes. “One mistake can cost you your life. It’s not for everyone but those with real passion and commitment can truly participate.”
That structure and discipline have helped him bring greater clarity and organisation to his working life. “It’s improved my ability to manage time, set priorities and stay focused,” he says, describing rallying as a tremendous source of strength and personal growth.
It also serves as a reminder of what truly fuels success: not just hard work but passion and commitment. He reiterates that trust – both in yourself and in others – is essential. Rallying has taught him to stay present and to see every challenge as an opportunity. These lessons go far beyond motorsport. “I encourage everyone to never give up on their dreams, as even the smallest, long-forgotten dream can bring meaning, balance and fulfillment to your daily routine and work life,” he says.
