Further to a technical problem in SS 13, Thierry Neuville (Hyundai) lose more than half an hour, and Sebastien Ogier (Ford) take the lead of the Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Seb, everything changes so quickly on this rally. Thierry Neuville has stopped and you lead. How do you feel?
SO: I feel amazing. I feel really good. One month ago we started a new project with M-Sport, but we had no time to prepare it. We knew it would be tough and it would be a big challenge, but I felt immediately some potential and now, to be in the lead in Monte Carlo with four stages to go, it feels good. But the last day will feel very, very long. We need to finish the job. It would be amazing to start with a victory
It’s been five years since M-Sport won pressure
SO: I don’t think too much about it – at least there is another guy from the team right behind me, so it would be a disaster if one of us isn’t here at the end. We have seen what has happened so far this weekend, there have been so many mistakes and so many tricky conditions and this will carry on tomorrow, with maybe some snow on top of Turini.
This is exciting for you…
SO: Yeah, for sure. We had a lot of run driving the new car this weekend – the challenge is definitely bigger. I repeat, please stay on the safe place [if you are spectating] – we are going even faster than before. Even if it was a new car and many details could be improved, I still had a lot of fun in the car.
Ott Tanak (Ford) take the second place (47’’), while Jari-Matti Latvala the third place (2’20’’).
It is worth mentioning the nice day for Elfyn Evans winner of SS 10,12 and 13.
The Automobile Club de Monaco regrets to advise further details following incident of the car #4 (Paddon/Kennard) in SS 1.
The spectator was transported by helicopter from the stage to hospital in Nice. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, the spectator has sadly died.
An investigation has commenced into the incident and all involved parties will provide assistance to the authorities.
Everyone associated with the event extends their deepest sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and individuals affected.