Vouilloz aims for a new podium

The 2010 edition of Monte Carlo saw Nicolas Vouilloz make his debut with Škoda. At the end of a well-conducted event, the Nicois climbed onto the third step of the podium. Since then, he has not participated in any IRC rounds. But for the centenary edition of this legendary event, Škoda has decided to renew its confidence in it. From then on, the objective will be to do as well as last year.

?It?s a great satisfaction to have finished the Monte-Carlo, the first time that I drove a Škoda Fabia, He explains. Until then, I had participated three times, but I had never managed to finish. Furthermore, finishing on the podium (3rd) is no small thing. I have not participated in any competition since the last Monte-Carlo. So I have to see where I am. Let's say that if I quickly regain my level, the objective of a new podium seems realistic to me?

The Frenchman is cautious. The Monte Carlo is a rally of the most tricky, and he knows that the choice of tires is always a crucial factor weighing heavily in the final result.

“Last year, I did the race on my own, without worrying too much about the others, continues the 2008 IRC champion. Some stages were successful for me, others less so. I will try to waste less time on these. I wouldn't want to set off on a false pace, because the start is tough: 37 km for Le Moulinon-Antraigues, 41 km for Burzet! No doubt I will call someone to get live information on our performance, this will allow us to rectify the situation if necessary? I won't try to force things too much either: it's when you're not yet completely in that you do stupid things. Above all, I will try to be as focused as possible, and to make the right tire choices, that's the most important thing in Monte-Carlo.

There are many candidates for the podium, and all will be keen to leave their mark on the centenary edition. Start of the first special tomorrow at 10:05 a.m.