Skoda driver Solberg is among the top favourites to win in the WRC2 class of the Kenyan WRC round. In the shakedown held on Wednesday morning, he clocked the second-fastest time in his class, trailing behind British driver Gus Greensmith.
Following the shakedown, the Safari Rally stewards announced that they had imposed a €2,000 suspended fine on Solberg due to a video published on social media during reconnaissance.
According to the stewards’ decision, a video was posted on Solberg’s Instagram, “where a hand-held mobile device was used for filming whilst driving on the reconnaissance.”
Solberg explained to the stewards that the video was filmed and published by his social media manager and emphasized that the footage was taken in a vehicle other than the registered reconnaissance vehicle.
The stewards’ decision noted that Solberg apologised and stated he understood the mistake that had happened and the negative image this could convey to his followers. He added that the video was removed from his social media account immediately after realizing the mistake.
The stewards emphasized that the video clearly gave the impression that Solberg was driving and filming at the same time.
Solberg will have to pay the €2,000 fine if he commits a similar violation during this season.
A challenging rally
Solberg got off to a perfect start in the WRC2 season with a commanding win in his home event, the Rally Sweden. He is now aiming for another top result in the Safari Rally, which he is participating in for the fourth time.
While Solberg is known for his speed, success in the Safari does not come from sheer velocity alone.
“I’ve had a few good and a few bad races here. Now, I’m looking forward to starting the rally. I’m trying to find a good steady pace and avoid punctures,” Solberg planned.
Solberg hasn’t devised any special strategy for the competition. The key is to reach the finish without issues.
“This year, the rally is really long, much longer and rougher than before. Friday seems quite nice, to be honest, but then there’s Saturday, and Sunday is probably the most difficult day. If you can survive Friday with a decent result, and have a bit of luck on Saturday, then we’ll see how Sunday goes,” Solberg discussed.
