Sordo: “I see Seb as an idol”

Dani Sordo is a discreet boy, reserved to the point of sometimes seeming defensive. Especially in interviews. It must be admitted that his task is not easy. The questions he cannot escape, he probably asks himself often, and for too long. In 2005, Dani was 22 years old when he won the FIA ​​Junior championship. Since then, he has been a Citroën driver. Three and a half years later, he is still waiting for his first victory. Is it constrained and forced, or by impotence, that he seems to be satisfied with a role which confines him to ensuring the title as a priority. Builders? Hopes and questions expressed by a boy with a subtle and delightful deadpan humor.

What assessment do you draw from your start to the 2009 season?
I got off to a good start in Ireland. Second, I was happy, even if, once again, Seb showed that he was a step above everyone. In Norway, I rode well. Hard to beat. On the other hand, I am disappointed with my Cypriot performance. However, I was certain that I had improved on the narrow and winding courses. In Portugal, it was a little different. I had a good time there rally…except on two or three special stages. I got lost in my notes. In one place, the difficulties followed one another at such a pace that I was unable to assimilate everything that Marc (Marti, his co-pilot. Editor's note) was telling me. I found myself off course, narrowly avoided leaving the road and lost all my speed. Sometimes it's less obvious why I'm wasting time. In Argentina, I fought for first place for a while. On Friday evening, I was in the lead. It?s always good for morale. The next day, Seb put things back in place. I opened the road and I couldn't do anything. Mikko?s retirement guaranteed me second place. I just had to slow down. I can hardly complain: I am second in the championship... but I continue to be more competitive on the fast tracks.

When you are able to drive at very high speeds, shouldn't it be child's play to be efficient at low speeds?
I'm the first to think about it. It is less obvious on the ground. Perhaps I tend to delay my braking excessively. When a turn jumps out at you? in the face, the time that separates the ?too soon? ?too late? is not easy to pin down.

Find the full interview in AUTOhebdo N°1701, on newsstands on May 20.