The Belgian star’s championship lead has dwindled to almost nothing, as his pace as the first car has been lacklustre both in Rally Poland and especially in the Rally Latvia. The starting conditions have not been easy, but in Central Finland, Neuville would do better to focus on driving rather than complaining.
Neuville tested last week at the team’s test area in Jämsä. Since Neuville will also be the first car on the route in Rally Finland, finding good settings for the slippery conditions is difficult. On the other hand, there are now two fast gravel rallies behind him, whose experience can be utilised.
“Rally Finland is a challenging but enjoyable rally. One of the most important things is a car you can trust in; you need grip and traction for the slower, narrow sections, but also good lateral grip and stability in the fast sections,” Neuville says.
“Precision will also be key when going into the fast corners to ensure you position the car before you take off on the jumps.”
Neuville dispelled his demons on fast gravel rallies at the latest last season when he finished second in Rally Finland. On the gravel roads of Central Finland, the role of the opening car is punishing, but not quite as harshly as in Poland and Latvia.
“Of course, being on the podium here previously provides a confidence boost, however the cars and roads develop year-to-year so the rally remains as challenging as ever,” Neuville summarises.
“The target is still to defend our lead in both championships but also to enjoy this fast rally and really be in the game.”
Rally Finland begins on Thursday morning with a shakedown stage in Ruuhimäki. The actual competition starts later that evening with the legendary Harju city special stage.
