M-Sport has the weapons for Sweden

M-Sport struggling to place itself at the level of Hyundai et Toyota, but the British team can hope for good results for the Rally of Sweden contested the week, an atypical event whose route was cut due to the absence of snow.

Malcolm Wilson's structure can notably count on its crews who have proven their worth on the Scandinavian round.

“The main thing is that the rally is maintained, comments Team Principal Richard Millener. It was always a good event for us and we are confident of having another one this weekend. Esapekka (Lappi) and Teemu (Suninen) who rode well here last year. Esapekka took second place while Teemu had been in the lead for the first time in his career. »

“The Fiestas were also very successful with 5 scratches and we plan to do the same this year, continues the director of M-Sport. Due to delays in confirming the event, the team will only find out the conditions during a test session this weekend, but this should give us a good idea of ​​what to expect. »

Esapekka Lappi has 3 starts at Rally Sweden. The former Citroën driver will be able to approach this round with confidence after his performance last year and his 4th place in the Monte-Carlo Rally obtained last month.

“I had good results in Sweden, especially last year when I was only competing in my second rally with (the Citroën C3 WRC). The adversity will be tough and we don't really know what the conditions will be like, but we will do our best. The Swedish stages are always fast, but there could only be a thin layer of ice and tire management will be quite important since it will be necessary to keep the tires on for the entire passage. I would have a good position on the road starting 4th. »

Teemu Suninen only has an 8th place as his best result in 4 starts at Rally Sweden, but the Finn remembers his performances from last year.

“We found good settings for soft snow and ruts. It worked out well for us as we were in the lead after the first stage and kept a good pace throughout the weekend. We must do the same this year without making mistakes, says the Finn. Obviously, a lot will depend on the weather. I'm hoping for snow, but we'll do our best to have a good fight. »

M-Sport has not won since 2012 but won 6 consecutive victories between 2006 and 2012.