The Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team come into the fourth round of the FIA World Rally Championship looking to forget a tough start to the 2015 season. Despite a second place finish for Mads Østberg in Mexico the team’s results have been disappointing and they find themselves fourth in the manufacturers standings almost 60 points of the leaders.
There will be massive pressure on Kris Meeke this weekend as he continues to look for his first podium finish of the season. The Northern Irishman has made a number of mistakes this season so far and will change his driving philosophy this weekend aiming for a controlled run through the event.
“I wanted to take advantage of this short break to take a step back. It is important to arrive in Argentina with a fresh perspective.” commented Meeke
In contrast Østberg is aiming to build on the pace he showed in Argentina. The Norwegian knows that he has the ability to compete for podium finishes and will be looking for more big points this weekend.
“We had a good test session after Mexico. I was able to work on the new features of the 2015-spec DS 3. In Argentina, I am going to adopt the same strategy as in Mexico. I’ll need to set a consistent, quick pace right from the word go, and then maintain it. The aim is to continue to pick up big points.” said Østberg
The event will also see Khalid Al Qassimi attack the Argentine stages for the first time in a third Citroen DS3 WRC.
“We have worked with Kris Meeke to identify the areas in which he needs to improve.” said Team Principle Yves Matton,
“He’ll be approaching Rally Argentina from a different angle to try and avoid the errors that cost him results in the early part of the season. With a more relaxed frame of mind during preparation, he has a bit more wiggle room to ensure he makes it to the finish without any mistakes. Mads Østberg is on a positive run. He is enthusiastic and his attack-minded approach has paid dividends. We know he can’t wait to get back in the car!”
Rally Argentina kicks off on April 23 and theCheckeredFlag.co.uk will be providing full coverage throughout the weekend.
