World RX – Timerzyanov downgraded, Nitiss in the lead at Montalegre

The World RX which starts this weekend in Montalegre (Portugal) already offers its share of surprises. At the end of the first two rounds, it is the Fiestas of Renis Nitiss and Andreas Bakkerud which are in the lead ahead of the Volkswagens of Topi Heikkinen and Anton Marklund entered by Marklund Motorsport. Timur Timerzyanov nevertheless distinguished himself on his Peugeot 208 for Team Hansen in winning both heats, but the reigning European champion was disqualified in the second event of the day for colliding with Petter Solberg's Citroën DS3, forcing the Norwegian to retire.

Jacques Villeneuve is in 14th place in his Albatec Racing 208 after losing time following a puncture. The Canadian will have to gain at least two positions to qualify. His teammate Andy Scott is doing better since he is in seventh place behind the Ford of Belgian Koen Pauwels and the Citroën of Alexander Hvaal. Liam Doran was unable to start the qualifying races following mechanical problems.