The M-Sport World Rally Team head into round six of the 2015 FIA World Rally Championship, Rally Italia Sardegna, in high spirits as they bid to improve upon a mixed Rally Portugal.
Welshman Elfyn Evans is confident after a pre-event test an is determined to move on from Portugal. Evans made his WRC debut in Sardinia in 2013 and he aims to succeed this year. The Welshman says there are a lot of factors that can affect the outcome of the rally.
“Road position should play a big role. “said Evans, “Last year we saw the results table turned out its head at the end of the first day, and we will run in championship order for two days this year so that will be interesting! We’re in the middle of the pack so it’s not a bad position, but there’ll still be those with a greater advantage. Tyre preservation and strategy will also be key. The second pass will be extremely hard on the tyres with high temperatures and a very abrasive surface. It will be exciting to see how all of these factors play out!”
Ott Tanak secured fifth in Portugal after tough results in Argentina and Mexico and will be hoping to continue his good form in Sardinia. The Estonian admits that it can be a very difficult event.
“You need to be sharp and concentrated and there are so many things to consider.” said Tanak, “The stages are very narrow and quite fast in places with plenty of dangers on the side of the road. You need to keep your focus and have a good recce to ensure you can be at your best.”
Rally Italia Sardegna kicks off on June 11.