Mads Ostberg dominates in Mexico, Adrien Fourmaux learns

Even though rally of Mexico is not included in WRC this year, the tradition was respected. The race started after a start ceremony as joyful as ever. The audience was perhaps a little smaller than at the World Cup, but the ovation that Julien Ingrassia received when he appeared in the spotlight provided further proof of the fervor of the spectators. The crews not only had to meet the crowd, they also had two stages to compete using sections of tunnel, which gave these times a very special character. With already 7 participations to his credit, Mads Ostberg did not look for his way in the night. Winner of the two ES, he returned to León as leader. The Norwegian was ahead of the local Benito Guerra (at 2s4) and Adrien fourmaux (at 5s6) who did not want to take any risks in these very narrow passages.

After this simple 2,20 km hors d'oeuvre, the competitors had 9 special stages and 141,33 km to cover on Saturday. Relying on his good knowledge of the terrain, Ostberg set the best times and built up a significant lead. “ Even though we had the road open for the whole day, it went very well, commented the Moss pilot. We made no mistakes and the car performed well. Despite the repetition of passages, the roadway remained generally smooth. These roads are definitely very pleasant to travel. » Although he could not be satisfied with his times, Adrien Fourmaux nevertheless gave a positive assessment of his stage. “ I am a competitorhe explained. I would rather fight with Mads. However, I don't want to take all the risks. Our goal is to accumulate as many kilometers as possible to learn the terrain. I was able to measure the effects of altitude on engine power and I can't wait to come back here with a Rally1 hybrid, because I think we will greatly see the difference between riding with or without the boost. I tried to attack a little more during 2^e lap, but we spun, which cooled me down. I haven't made many changes to my notes, but they would be more suited to a WRC! » Ranked 2^e, the Frenchman associated with Alex Coria is 2min07s8 behind. Behind the two World Cup regulars, the field saw numerous withdrawals among the Nations Cup competitors. The two Japanese (Hiroki Arai and Hironao Ishii) retired due to mechanical problems, the Italian Alberto Battistolli ran out of fuel... The third step of the podium is occupied by the local Benito Guerra (at 4min09s5). Matthew Wilson who suffered a morning puncture is 4^e. The Englishman is ahead of Eyvind Brynildsen who performed miracles with a very tired Mitsubishi Lancer which allows Team Norway to lead the ranking in the Nations Cup. On Sunday, the competitors will still have 5 special stages to compete, i.e. 86,10 km against the clock.