Thierry Neuville predicts a “very close battle” at Monte-Carlo

While the 2023 campaign of WRC begins in Monte-Carlo from January 19, until Sunday, everyone evaluates their chances. Between the absence of Loeb and snow, the race starting from Place du Casino can smile on Thierry Neuville. « It's drier than usual, comments the 34-year-old pilot at a press conference. This makes the test a little easier in these conditions. » In 2020, during the 88th edition of the race in the principality, the Belgian put an end to 9 years of French domination by winning his only victory in the Monegasque edition. This year, there is no question of letting your guard down: “ There can always be surprises in an event like this, it can easily surprise you. So you have to stay focused and give your best. We have to show that we have the necessary speed. Sometimes we were on the podium here, but we also had bad experiences. I think it will be a close battle. »

A close battle with many protagonists. The Finnish Kalle Rovanperä and the Estonian Ott Tänak are listed in favorites. But the reigning world champion and vice-champion will also have to get rid of a Sébastien Ogier, pipped to the post by Loeb last year and in pursuit of a 9e victory to become the Monte-Carlo record holder. To win, the Belgian will have to make the most of his Hyundai i20: « It is quite similar to last year. There aren't many changes, with the winter being quite short and harsh with so much for the teams to prepare for. We changed the aero, we hope to get some benefits from it. »

2023, the year of the title for Neuville?

A ninth year with Hyundai, and perhaps that of a coronation for Neuville. After occupying third place in the rankings for the last two seasons and occupying the top 2 from 2016 to 2019, all that is missing is a world title from the Belgian's record. But, for now, caution is in order: “ I'm happy to still be here and still motivated to attack the upcoming season, he procrastinates. If it's my year, we'll see. But I will give my best and we will only know at the end of the year if it was indeed ours. »

« We don't know what the others did, it's always a surprise in the first tests. Someone may have the advantage, but I hope the level will be even enough to allow for good battles.s,” he concludes. With a second place for the Hyundai World Rally Team last year, the South Korean team is counting on Neuville and his teammates, Esapekka Lappi and Dani Sordo, to shine from the start of the season.

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