In Ogier’s gravel note crew, compatriot Stephane Lefebvre, who is still an active rally driver himself, takes the wheel. Lefebvre replaces the experienced Simon Jean-Joseph, who had long served as Ogier’s assistant.
The multiple champion believes that a new face in the gravel crew can enhance his driving.
“It was in the air for a while already because Simon was getting more and more busy with some of his activities, and it was becoming more demanding for him to come to the event,” Ogier explained.
“Also, it is becoming difficult after so many years away from the sport. Even if he still drives from time to time, it’s difficult then to really have the perfect understanding of modern cars and modern tyres. In that respect, Stephane is much more active, and I’m sure he can help me improve in some areas.”
It remains to be seen how the cooperation between Ogier and Lefebvre will kick off in Croatia, where the gravel crew faces an exceptionally tough job. In Croatia, it’s crucial to identify gravel and mud patches and communicate them to the drivers.
“Of course, it will probably take a little bit of time to understand each other 100%, because that’s the way it works with a gravel crew you need. We need to trust these extra eyes completely.”
Ogier suggests that his collaboration with Jean-Joseph had perhaps become too routine.
“I have the feeling that Stephane can help me improve a bit, especially my pace in dirty conditions, because it’s an area where I have sometimes been too cautious in my career. Also, I had a feeling that we were working in this way with Simon on a very safe side in terms of information,” Ogier shared.
“Maybe we can try to push a bit more with Stephane and try to improve that part.”
Despite the changed starting conditions, Ogier’s sole aim remains to win. However, a new points scoring system forces a rethinking of the overall points strategy.
“It’s hard to know what we can do tomorrow. And of course, my main motivation coming to an event is trying to get a win. But very close to that is the sense that I’m here also for the team which supports me and gives me the chance to still do our sport. I want to give them back as much as I can,” Ogier summed up.
“That means if the win is not possible, then the target will be to bring the maximum points for the team. The way it is at the moment, in my eyes, there are way too many points awarded on Sunday. That means if the start of the rally is difficult, then you are probably in a better position to make a better Sunday and save your weekend.”
