Meeke: hierarchy will remain uncertain after Monte-Carlo

While the Citroën drivers remained discreet during the shakedown of the Rally Monte-Carlo in order to preserve the tires for the event, Kris Meeke believes that the performances and the gaps between the competitors will not necessarily be representative of the forces present.

“It’s a big step into the unknown. We have a new regulation which opens the same opportunities to everyone, confided Kris Meeke at a press conference. Time will tell, but we probably won't know much this weekend. It will come more during the rallies that follow. »

Kris Meeke can nevertheless hope to join the fight for victory at the Monte-Carlo Rally after facing Sébastien Ogier last year until an abandonment caused by a stone on the road.

“I proved last year that I enjoyed this rally as well as my fight with Seb, even if he had the advantage most of the time. It takes time before you can appreciate this ordeal. I want to approach this race relaxed and enjoying it.”, explained the Northern Irishman.

The first Citroën Racing driver can at least hope for an equal battle in terms of strategies regarding the choice of tires given the winter conditions with snowy and icy roads.

“The choice of tires is much simpler in these conditions, confirmed Kris Meeke. The weather is very stable and is not expected to change much. The rally still remains difficult and we should have real winter conditions on Friday and Saturday. It might be easier in terms of tires, but not in terms of driving. It will be very complicated in certain areas, even with studded tires. »

The start of the Monte-Carlo Rally will be given this evening at 20:14 p.m. with two special stages on the program. SS1, the 21,25km Entrevaux – Ubraye special, will be broadcast live on L’Équipe 21. The event will also be followed in live text on our site.