Solberg has a firm grip on the WRC2 class championship, and the situation is quite clear: if Solberg takes the class victory in Chile, he will be the WRC2 champion.
In that case, Sami Pajari’s chances will be gone for good. However, any other result would keep the championship battle alive. At the moment, Solberg leads the category by three points over Pajari.
Solberg has dominated the WRC2 class throughout the season. He has won three rallies and placed second twice. However, Solberg isn’t celebrating yet, even though the WRC2 championship is within his grasp.
“Nothing is certain yet,” Solberg reminded.
“I know that if I win next week, then I will be champion, but it’s one thing to say that – it’s another thing to go and win a WRC2 round,” Solberg continued.
Chile is Solberg’s final rally of the season.
“The events are so competitive this season, we have to fight one more time.”
Chile has previously suited Solberg and his co-driver Elliott Edmondson exceptionally well. Last year, the duo impressively finished sixth overall.
“I like Chile,” Solberg said.
“It’s a very cool country and the rally is really nice. The roads are fantastic and the atmosphere around the event was amazing – the ceremonial start was one of the best we have been to,” Solberg recalled.
In addition to providing an excellent atmosphere, Chile also poses a tough competitive challenge.
“It’s a little bit different to some of the rallies we do in Europe, the surface can be quite hard to predict and making the right tyre choice isn’t always easy. We have to be careful… and quick,” Solberg anticipated.
Solberg’s goal is clear.
“For me, I go with one aim: the WRC2 title. All of the year in 2024, I have been focused on winning this championship; my partners and the whole team have been working hard towards this moment. Now we have to deliver,” Solberg said with determination.
Solberg last competed in Rally Finland. That was already eight weeks ago.
“I don’t remember a time when I didn’t drive a rally car in competition for so long. But it just makes me more hungry to get back to the Skoda and go again. I love driving this car and I can’t wait for me and Elliott to be back where we belong.”
Rally Chile begins on September 26. The competition consists of 16 special stages and 306 kilometres of competitive stages.
