Ogier is currently in second place after the first full day of competition. However, Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville, who benefitted from a better road position, leads the rally by 6.4 seconds.
Neuville drove smartly throughout the day, and Ogier was ultimately unable to match his pace.
“I think we can be pleased with the start. On asphalt, especially here, we knew that starting position could be a bit difficult even when you’re only third on the road,” Ogier said.
“But being six seconds behind, I think, is very good for us,” Ogier added.
Earlier this year, Ogier harshly criticised the rally organisers at Rally Greece, which earned him a suspended €30,000 fine for speaking out. However, that fine isn’t going to be paid anytime soon, as Ogier had only praise for the organisers this time around.
“At the same time, I think the organisers have done a really good job this year with the anti-cut device. It was pretty consistent and it offered a nice fight between the top guys today,” Ogier commended.
Ogier wasn’t completely satisfied with the afternoon stages but saw the day overall as a success.
“Only this one stage (SS5/8) getting tricky for us. Already after two cars, there were massive leaves everywhere on the road. But luckily, we managed on the last pass tonight with a big attack. It’s a positive start. I’m pleased with that.” Ogier said.
On Saturday, road positions will no longer offer a significant advantage, which could shake things up.
“Tomorrow there’s no question mark with the position anymore. We are in equal conditions, and we know we’re going to have to push to stay in this fight,” Ogier reminded.
Ogier still has a slim, theoretical chance at the drivers’ championship, but it’s so faint it’s almost see-through. It’s better for him to focus on the manufacturers’ battle.
“We are the chaser, so we cannot afford to just relax and control any result, especially when we are not in the lead. So for sure, yeah, we’ll have to keep pushing,” Ogier previewed.
