Solberg mastered the extremely challenging conditions in Monte Carlo superbly and eventually claimed a rather dominant victory.
In Monte Carlo, Solberg left his team-mates Elfyn Evans and Sébastien Ogier decisively in second and third places. Beating Ogier in particular – the undisputed king of Monte Carlo – was a truly top-class demonstration of his ability.
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala was naturally a very satisfied man after the rally.
“An absolutely top weekend when you’re able to take a one-two-three,” Latvala said in an interview with RallyJournal.com.
“Oliver Solberg showed that he is capable of filling the boots left by Kalle Rovanperä. He filled the void that emerged after Kalle’s departure. The young driver immediately showed that he can be part of the championship fight,” Latvala continued.
The value of Solberg’s victory is further enhanced by the fact that this year’s edition of the Monte Carlo World Rally Championship was exceptionally challenging. Latvala, often described as the rally’s “walking encyclopaedia of road knowledge”, recalled that similar conditions have not been seen for a very long time.
“This event is the most difficult rally of the season, and the conditions were exceptionally demanding. Perhaps once every 15 years you encounter conditions like these. The drivers had to cope with everything imaginable. And Oliver’s performance against more experienced drivers was truly magnificent,” Latvala said.
Latvala also recalled having been involved in a nearly similar Monte Carlo himself.
“In 2013 the conditions were similar, but I went off the road at Col de Turini, so I know very well what it’s like,” Latvala chuckled.
