Solberg: Same chances with Ford

The 2011 season was difficult to complete for Petter Solberg, who suffered from a lack of finances to manage his private team. The 2003 world champion finally came to replace Mikko Hirvonen in the Ford WRT and can once again enjoy a starting place by focusing solely on his performances. If the Norwegian lacks experience on the Fiesta RS WRC, his knowledge of the test should make his task easier.

“My first test was carried out in difficult conditions but I quickly felt comfortable”, assures Petter Solberg. “I drove here last year when it wasn't a WRC event so I know all the stages apart from two new ones. I appreciate this rally even if the conditions can be difficult. There are no real difficulties if the weather remains dry but we can expect ice and snow if it is wet. Managing tires according to circumstances requires a good set-up, a good strategy and good climatic information from the team. Coming back to Ford is exciting and having the chance to drive for a manufacturer again was what I was looking for with my private team for the last three seasons. Jari-Matti (Latvala) and I are here to fight for titles and we have the means. »

Discover in your AUTOhebdo magazine, on newsstands from Wednesday, our 2012-page WRC Guide.