M-Sport puts on a show at the Herbst Rallye in preparation for the CER

In order to try to snag a 3^e victory this season in WRC, M-Sport  tried to put all the chances on his side. After three days of testing for the three crews who will be present in Passau for the CER (Central European Rally) from Monday for reconnaissance, Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja were able to compete in the Herbst Rally in Austria. Based in Dobersberg, the event was located in the north of the country very close to the border with the Czech Republic. It offered 99,94 timed kilometers divided into 8 special stages.

Isolated in Rally1, Ott Tänak immediately took the lead. The Estonian had gone for a logical solo rider, but he seriously damaged the rear of his Puma in SS2 and he punctured in the next one, losing around fifty seconds. The 2019 world champion ceded command to Adrien fourmaux who was riding a Fiesta Rally2. Only 9'' behind, Ott quickly recovered his possessions and had a calmer end to the rally. Even if it remains anecdotal, it is his 5^e success with the American this year, including two in the WRC (Sweden and Chile). Ott has now established himself on all surfaces.

Leader during a SS, Adrien Fourmaux led a solid race. Having an interesting lead on 3^e, the Frenchman did not take any risks at the end of the event and his 2^e place can allow him to approach the CER with serenity. For Fourmaux, this final rally of the season with the Fiesta will be an opportunity for him to use a vehicle with the latest developments, including a revised front end. He will seek to compare himself to the WRC2 competitors, but he will not score points.

Nicolas Ciamin was also engaged at Herbst. The Niçois continued his work with the Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 that he discovered in the Heart of France. The Niçois, who was slowed down by a puncture, set several times ahead of Fourmaux, but he failed 20”7 behind the Ford.

Ranking of the Rallye Herbst 2023

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