Simon Jean-Joseph ready for Auxerre

“I have the feeling of going back to square one”, explains Simon Jean-Joseph to the checks of the rally Terre de l?Auxerrois which are taking place this afternoon. “My last race with a WRC goes back ten years, when I competed in several world rounds on a Peugeot 206 WRC from the Kronos team. Also I have no idea of ​​my driving level. Yesterday, I took charge of the Xsara WRC of Petter Solberg's team, over around fifty kilometers, I found good sensations, but from there to say that I will be able to fight for victory? Even though I have a competitive soul, I am aware that my level is no longer what it was. Above all, I come to please myself and satisfy my partners. And while I might disappoint some, for my part I take this return as an expression of my passion. » Note that Petter Solberg's Xsara will be equipped with Kumho tires: “It was a good opportunity for them to equip a cutting-edge car. »

Facing Simon Jean-Joseph, the other favorites for the Terre de l?Auxerrois rally will be Laurent Carbonaro (Ford Focus WRC), Paul Chieusse (Peugeot 307 WRC) and Manu Gascou (Peugeot 207 S 2000). Julien Maurin, who had considered renting a Ford Focus WRC, finally withdrew, failing to conclude an agreement with a team with this mount.