ERC kicks off under Czech command – one of the favourites withdraws from the rally

The Czech driver Erik Cais set the fastest time at the super special stage that opened the Hungarian gravel rally, edging out Hungarian Martin Laszlo by a narrow margin of 0.1 seconds.

“It was good fun. I was a bit scared because of how narrow it is so it can create mistakes. Not easy stages tomorrow, lots of jumps,” Cais anticipated.

Reigning champion Hayden Paddon drove his Hyundai to the third fastest time, trailing Cais by 0.8 seconds.

“I’m happy with the road position tomorrow, little bit of cleaning potentially. I just want to stay out of trouble,” Paddon shared.

However, Mads Østberg, who was among the favourites to win, had to withdraw from the rally even before the first stage. After falling ill before the race, Østberg announced via social media that he would withdraw from the competition after consulting with doctors. The Norwegian did not want to jeopardize his health.

“I’ve had a tough week and have been trying to recover from an infection in my lungs. I was at the hospital on Tuesday, and also got good help from a private doctor here in Veszprém. I recovered well for a couple of days, but this morning I suddenly had instant pain in my back around the lung,” Østberg wrote.

“I had to be brought to the hospital by the race medical crew. Thanks for all the good help I’ve received, but unfortunately, I can’t push my body any further this week. Time to recover and get well!”

The gaps did not widen much on the two-kilometre spectator stage. The top ten drivers were all within just over two seconds of each other.

Rally Hungary continues on Saturday with six special stages scheduled. The competition concludes on Sunday.

Rally Hungary standings after SS1/13: