Hyundai “not entirely satisfied with its performance” before Mexico

Hyundai Motorsport had a successful start to the season by winning the Rally Monte Carlo with Thierry Neuville and securing second place in Sweden with Ott Tänak. Nevertheless, it is Toyota Gazoo Racing and its driver Elfyn Evans who leads the Drivers' and Manufacturers' championships ahead of next week's Rally Mexico.

“We are not entirely satisfied with the performance of the Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC in the first rounds of the season, despite a victory at Monte and a 2nd place in Sweden, admits team principal Andrea Adamo. We work hard to get the best package on each event. It is very important to optimize our performances during the first rallies of the season in order to satisfy our ambitions for the rest of the championship. »

Thierry Neuville currently occupies second place in the championship, tied on points with Elfyn Evans. The Belgian took the podium twice in Mexico with Hyundai, in 2014 and 2017.

“Rally Mexico is the first event of the year with high temperatures. The altitude is high and the stages are quite long, explains the vice-champion. Conditions are tough, especially for the first cars on the road. I have very good memories of Mexico, including our first podium with Hyundai Motorsport. I've never managed to do it before, but it would be nice to change this year. »

Although he is the reigning champion, Ott Tänak was also unable to add the Rally of Mexico to his record.

“I'm happy to have been able to get my first podium with Hyundai in Sweden, but the situation will be very different in Mexico, confirms the Estonian. It will be physically hard, especially with the altitude where oxygen is less present. It is necessary to keep the steering clean and smooth while the engine power is reduced. You have to be efficient. »

Dani Sordo will perhaps be best placed to shine. The Spaniard will take part in his first WRC rally of the season and will benefit from a clean road during the first stage.

“It’s an event that I really like and I’ve always been fast there, assures the Hispanic pilot. I remained close to the team during the first events of the season. Our position on the road will be advantageous, but it will not be enough to hope to win without effort. »

Dani Sordo and his teammates took part in the Serras de Fafe Rally in Portugal last weekend to prepare for Rally Mexico where Hyundai has never won.