Kris Meeke expects tough rally in Finland

In July 2016, Chris Meeke, engaged on a partial program with Citroën Racing while the development of the current C3 continued, the DS3 imposed WRC on the Finnish slopes after a rally controlled from start to finish by the Briton, who seemed in total confidence.

Twelve months later, Meeke will return to Rally Finland in a completely different context. Replaced by Andreas Mikkelsen in Poland, after lackluster performances since the start of the season (apart from a success in Mexico), the former Mini driver will have to convince for his return to the wheel of the C3 WRC.

“Rally Finland has always been one of my favorites, but this event became even more special after my victory last year, Meeke explains. These dirt roads are among the most beautiful in the world and the driving pleasure can be immense.

I'm happy to get back behind the wheel of the C3 WRC, although I expect a difficult rally. Our tests took place in the rain and with very cool temperatures. It seems likely that these conditions will continue for the rally and my tenth place in the starting order will not be an advantage if the roads are covered in mud! Whatever happens, we will do our best to bring a good result to the team. »

An evolved C3

Kris Meeke, just like Craig Breen, 3rd here last year, will benefit from the latest innovations introduced in Poland on the C3 WRC. « We are in a phase of optimizing these new features and the tests carried out this week are intended to adapt the settings to Finnish roads, comments Yves Matton, boss of Citroën Racing. Our objectives remain measured and linked to the racing conditions actually encountered. »