Kopecky recovers, Hänninen asserts himself

Will Kris Meeke be able to retain his title acquired in 2009? The Northern Irishman was counting on this Rally of the Canaries to return to the Skoda trio at the top of the general classification but he will ultimately have to postpone his ambitions. Once again, Skoda achieves a hat-trick and its three drivers consolidate their place in the general classification of the championship.

However, Kris Meeke (Peugeot 207 S2000) had started perfectly on Friday, lining up the scratches. But, in SS8, the Peugeot UK driver suffered a puncture and had to abandon his hopes of victory. Jan Kopecky (Skoda Fabia S2000) then took the torch and held his place.

This Saturday, the Czech was able to maintain his lead and make it grow, finishing with a little less than ten seconds ahead of Juho Hänninen (Skoda Fabia S2000). The good operation is for the Finn, who consolidates his first place in the drivers' ranking, with 32 points.

Guy Wilks (Skoda Fabia S2000), third, completes a 100% Skoda podium. “I must admit that the weekend did not start well,” comments the Briton. But, in the end, it was a superb race, with another hat-trick for Skoda. »

Behind the Skoda trio, Kris Meeke (Peugeot 207 S2000) finally finished fourth and scored five points. “Okay, we finished fourth but thanks to Bruno (Magalhaes). I'm really disappointed because we lost ten points today. »

Fifth, Bruno Magalhaes (Peugeot 207 S2000) fell one place in the last special. But, contrary to what Kris Meeke reports, the Portuguese admits to having been beaten regularly. “Everything was fine, Kris was just faster. It was a good rally, a new rally for everyone. »

Thierry Neuville (Peugeot 207 S2000), for its first rally in IRC, was seventh for a long time. The Belgian had to retire in SS14 after breaking a suspension following an exit from the track.