Freddy Loix strong leader in Madeira

Kris Meeke (Peugeot 207 S2000), after losing a lot of points during the first half of the season, can only keep a very slim hope of being able to retain his title. Second from last Rally from the Azores, the Northern Irishman is still 25 points behind the leader, Juho Hänninen (Skoda Fabia S2000). To continue dreaming, the 2009 champion must win this weekend in Madeira.

But, on this first day, Kris Meeke never seemed able to stay in contact with the best, Freddy Loix (Skoda Fabia S2000) and Luca Rossetti (Abarth Grande Punto S2000). The latter, leader in the morning, then lost against Freddy Loix. The Belgian, stringing together the best times, was able to build a solid lead over the stages. In the evening, the exit of Luca Rossetti made his task easier, his closest opponent being Kris Meeke, second more than twenty seconds behind. “ I think there will be more fighting tomorrow, estimates Loix. But it?s a shame that the duel with Luca ended this way »

Freddy Loix therefore seems to be heading towards a second victory after his success on the Ypres Rally. The Belgian will have to remain attentive until the end but he seems well on his way to keeping Kris Meeke at bay. On the other hand, the latter will have to contain the attacks of Jan Kopecky (Skoda Fabia S2000), who has not given up trying to catch up with the Peugeot UK driver.