Adamo: “Hyundai is here to win”

Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Have you always been passionate about cars?

I am now 47 years old and I come from Turin. I have been immersed in motorsport since my childhood. My father, who loved racing cars, was technical commissioner for the Italian federation.

Given your age, you must have known about the prosperous period of transalpine manufacturers in rally ?

At home, there were always arguments between the supporters of the Lancia Stratos and those of the 131 Abarth!

Did you focus your studies in this area?

I followed a course to integrate this environment. I was still a student when I joined Abarth. I worked in rallying, but also in DTM with Alfa Romeo. In 1996, I participated in the Italian and Spanish Supertouring Championship. When Fiat changed strategy, I continued my activity with Lotus, Lola, then JAS-Honda in the WTCC in 2012.

À quel moment avez-vous rejoint Hyundai ?

Since December 1, 2015.

What kind of Italian are you? Silent and charming like Marcello Mastroianni, or volcanic like Flavio Briatore?

(Laughs) You would have asked me the question a few years ago, I would have answered that I was a Brad Pitt lookalike… today, that’s less true! More seriously, I think I have a bit of a volcanic side, but not like Etna, which always explodes!

When were you asked to lead the WRC ?

End December.

How did you take this request?

I was of course surprised. When you work for a factory team, they don't call you and say: "What would you think of...". It is more of a direction that you are told to follow than a suggestion.

What are the objectives set by Hyundai for 2019?

Again, there wasn't much discussion. If a manufacturer invests in one competition rather than another, it is to demonstrate that its cars are competitive. We are not here to be nice or show that we have a nice reception structure. Hyundai is here to win!

Why do you think Hyundai didn't win a title in 2018?

Quite honestly, I already had a lot of things to take care of and I didn't really have time to follow the WRC. To do the best job possible, I stayed focused on what was my responsibility.

Now the WRC is one of your priorities. What are you going to start with?

I will speak with all the members of the team to understand where we can progress. Sometimes in motorsport, luck plays an important role. Not everything is due to luck, of course, but it is a parameter to consider.

What state of mind was the team in?

Very motivated. My job will be to maintain this motivation. I have been here for over 3 years. I know everyone… and vice versa. It's an advantage. We pass the “discovery” stage and immediately get to work. When I look at all the things I have to do this year, it's a little worrying, but there's an African proverb that says "the only way to eat an elephant is to do it piece by piece." So I'm going to move forward step by step.

Do you already have ideas for changes you would like to make to the team?

If I had to summarize what is expected of me, I would say it is to make decisions, indicate directions and timing. I am from an older generation and I do not use Google Map, but a paper map. So I need some time. My work will not be technical, but rather in team management. There are very competent technicians at Hyundai who will make suggestions to me.

Are you satisfied with your crews for 2019?

I think Hyundai has the best driver line-up in the WRC in 2019. And I'm not saying that because it's my team. I will try to manage them well by putting them in ideal conditions so that they can win and take the last step to win the championship. You don't have to wait for it to fall from the sky. There is no miracle. We must move forward day by day, remain calm and not deviate from the chosen direction.

Is this the recipe you used in WTCR to win the title?

In Italy there are a lot of good chefs and I don't know if I'm one of them. But I promise to never write a cookbook. (Laughs)

Andreas Mikkelsen had a complicated 2018 season. How can you help him come back?

I have no doubt about Mikkelsen’s talent. I can't believe a person becomes strong or weaker overnight! Sometimes there is an alignment of things that does not allow you to be in a winning situation. We need to talk first so I can understand.

Sébastien Loeb joined Hyundai. What image do you have of him? Have you ever spoken to each other?

We haven't spoken yet. Regarding the image, what can I add? I think this is a plus for Hyundai. He will bring his experience and expertise, particularly in development. We must thank Michel Nandan for having managed to sign him with us. It’s a nice gift that he leaves to Hyundai.

The 2018 season was crazy. What do you expect in 2019?

It could be even crazier!