Despite damaging his car on Sunday morning, the Frenchman scored well as he finished fifth in the “long” race that concluded on Saturday and also won the rally-ending Power Stage.
The SS victory was only the fifth of Fourmaux’s career. He celebrated his first time on the Power Stage.
“That was one of the best stages of my life. My hands were shaking at the end of the stage. The adrenaline was so high. I was fully committed to the stage. I gave everything in that one and really pushed hard,” Fourmaux said.
“I’m really pleased we recorded the fastest time in probably one of the most difficult Power Stages of the championship. What really makes me happy is that we have significantly improved the car compared to Monte Carlo, so it’s a big step.”
Naturally, the mistake was still a source of frustration for the French driver, but the new scoring system meant the losses were minimal.
“It was a really small mistake for us with big consequences. Some other drivers made a lot of mistakes and it was okay for them, but for us it’s been different.”
Fourmaux did not fully blame himself for the error.
“The concrete pole came a bit earlier than I expected. The issue in Croatia is that they don’t place the concrete poles during the recce. You can only trust your gravel crew, but you can’t say exactly where it is. Sometimes you get surprises,” Fourmaux explained.
The Ford driver continues to hold third place in the championship. The first four events of the season have brought him two podiums. Last season, Fourmaux competed in a lower class, but his hard work has finally paid off.
“That means a lot. It means that we never give up, and we have never given up over the last two and a half years. We are third in the championship and competing with the champions. We still have things to improve. There is still a long way to go, but it’s very positive. It just gives me confidence.”
