Shane Van Gisbergen: “I still have a lot to learn”

Shane Van Gisbergen, what is your feeling at the start of this race?

I love being here with our little team. It's a special atmosphere to find myself facing boys like Hayden Paddon. I also look at the cars in the Rally1 category a lot.

For a track rider, notes are always one of the difficult aspects to assimilate. Where are you in this area?

I still have a lot to learn. For example, during the visit to Whaanga Coast, which I didn't know, I found it very complicated, because there are a lot of things to announce. However, I am here to have fun. I love driving a car rally. I think I will be able to drive fast, but I will lack experience. I know that I can rely on Glen (Weston, his co-driver) who has experience and who will guide me and tell me when I am making mistakes. I asked advice from guys like Hayden, who played the game really well, but I'm convinced that there's nothing more useful than spending time in the car to improve.

Shane Van Gisbergen's Skoda Fabia Rally2 in Auckland (Loïc Rocci)

After the success you've had in your career, how does it feel to be a rookie again?

This is only my 5^e rally, so that’s perfectly the case. I will try to learn as much as possible. I have to find my rhythm, be patient.

Are you planning to take part in more rallies?

This is actually something that I would really like. I love the atmosphere of being together. I therefore hope to play more next year, particularly in the New Zealand championship.

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