Rally Mexico: They said…

Ogier, Loeb and Citroën Racing are currently flying over the rally from Mexico, helped by their starting position allowing them to take advantage of a track already swept, notably by the Ford drivers. Here are the feelings of each of the protagonists of this rally at the end of the first stage.

“My strategy was simple: I had to ride as fast as possible today. Our fourth position on the road was not bad, but not ideal as two other DS3s WRC were rushing right behind me. In these conditions, having been faster than Petter and Seb throughout the day is a reason for satisfaction. Tomorrow it will be much more difficult since I will have to open the road. I am clearly not in the most ideal position to win the rally, but I had no alternative. I will continue to attack as much as possible” analyzes Sébastien Ogier.

Just behind, Loeb looks enthusiastic for the rest of the rally. “I couldn't have hoped for much better from this first day. The objective was not to be in the lead this evening. The situation quickly changed for our opponents and the rally turned into a duel with Sébastien. I think we both rode hard and the rest promises to be interesting. We must see what the real influence of scanning will be. With these new cars and the Michelin tires, I have the impression that the gaps are smaller than in the past. I can not wait for tomorrow ! »

Third overall by more than 1 minute, the winner of the Swedish rally, Mikko Hirvonen, does not admit defeat. “I'm in a good position and the pressure will be on the others tomorrow. The guys in front will have to sweep the track. I have to concentrate 100% and attack hard to try to make up for lost time… I have already lost less time than last year” puts the Ford driver into perspective. This presages a second stage full of suspense.

Sébastien Ogier will start the Ibarilla 1 special at 8:54 a.m. local time, or 15:54 p.m. in France. Follow this second day live on Autohebdo.fr