The Hyundai driver’s form has been on the rise, and Tänak has managed to improve his performances as the season has progressed.
At the season-opening Monte Carlo Rally, Tänak finished fifth. In February’s Rally Sweden, he placed fourth, and at the Safari Rally Kenya, he claimed his first podium of the year. Tänak drove a smart rally in Africa’s tough conditions, finishing second.
After three rounds, Tänak sits third in the drivers’ standings with 49 points. Ahead of him are teammate Thierry Neuville and Toyota’s Elfyn Evans, who has enjoyed a superb start to the season.
Evans has already collected an impressive 88 points from the first three rallies. The Welshman has pulled 36 points clear of Neuville, and Tänak trails him by 39 points.
Tänak is not entirely satisfied with his start to the season.
“In the big picture, it has been a stable start, but perhaps to some extent we have been driving too much on the safe side,” Tänak said in an interview with Estonia’s Delfi Sport.
Evans has started the season strongly, securing two wins and one second place.
“There is nothing to hide, Elfyn has had a very strong start. He has taken very strong points in all rallies and that is why the points gap is quite large,” Tänak admitted.
At the end of April, Hyundai will tackle the Rally Islas Canarias with an updated car. It will be the first full asphalt event of the season.
“However, the season is still young and we have been moving at an increasing pace. We can also drive the updated Hyundai car from Spain,” Tänak predicted.
“I hope we can close the gap. The motivation is definitely there to end the season on a positive note,” Tänak added.
The Rally Islas Canarias will be held from 24–27 April.
