Katsuta’s season in the WRC has undoubtedly been challenging. His only significant success came in Kenya in March, where he finished third. Beyond that, he has faced four retirements and several lower-tier finishes.
In Greece, however, Katsuta must challenge the Hyundai drivers and keep the car on the road. Toyota desperately needs points in the manufacturers’ championship battle. Hyundai currently leads by 20 points with only four rallies remaining.
“Greece is one of the trickiest rallies given how rough and slippery the stages can be. As a driver, you need to be committed as usual of course, but at the same time you have to manage the car and the tyres.” Katsuta says.
The last three WRC rallies were raced on ultra-fast gravel roads, but in Greece, the drivers will need a different approach.
“It’s a different kind of challenge to the last three rallies, so it needs a change of mindset, but I had a good test last week and I have a good feeling for the rally,” Katsuta tells.
Last season, Katsuta finished sixth in Greece, but the team is surely hoping for a better result this time. Back then, however, two punctures significantly cost him time.
“Last year, the rally was going OK for us until we picked up some punctures. This kind of thing can happen on a rally like this and I will try to focus on avoiding issues and mistakes,” japanese driver summarizes.
“If I follow this strategy we can hopefully have a good result at the end.”
The Acropolis Rally in Greece consists of 15 special stages, covering a total of approximately 305 kilometres.
