Thierry Neuville winner of Monte-Carlo: “I was 100% comfortable”

Winner of his second Monte-Carlo Rally and leader of the world championship, the Belgian was in symbiosis with the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 hybrid. All under the watchful eye of his boss, Cyril Abiteboul.

Published 28/01/2024 à 13:49

Medhi Casaurang

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Thierry Neuville winner of Monte-Carlo: “I was 100% comfortable”

The Belgian launches his 2024 season with a victory. Photo DPPI / Nikos Natikis

Four years after a first triumph at Rally Monte Carlo, Thierry Neuville (Hyundai) pins the legendary Monegasque event to his list of achievements for the second time. The Belgian driver emerged victorious from a bitter duel which pitted him against the Frenchman Sébastien Ogier (Toyota) throughout the meeting.

“We don't have the words, he blurted out at the top of the pass Type, where the finish of this 92nd edition of the winter event was judged, on Canal+. It was shaping up to be a fairly easy rally (with the absence of snow and ice. Ed.), but ultimately it was very difficult, with incredible conditions.

I think it was an effort from the whole team which paid off and allowed us to put in a great performance. The car ran well all weekend, I was 100% comfortable. The team did what was necessary for me to get the victory. I felt comfortable and the car gave me the confidence I needed. »

His boss Cyril Abiteboul had left the Gap service park to congratulate his driver in the mountains. And the least we can say is that the former boss of Renault en Formula 1 was amazed by the work of Thierry Neuville.

“He is one of those motorsport icons. There were a lot of calculations in the night (from Saturday to Sunday) to know whether to attack, and whether we should put five or six wheels in the car. I think we live for those moments, to give him the opportunity to experience those moments. It was an absolutely masterful lesson, from A to Z. There are still 12 left (rallies), there remains a lot of work but a lot of work has already been done! »

ALSO READ > Monte-Carlo Rally: Indisputable victory for Thierry Neuville, Yohan Rossel wins in WRC2

Medhi Casaurang

Passionate about the history of motorsport across all disciplines, I learned to read thanks to AUTOhebdo. At least that's what my parents tell everyone when they see my name inside!

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