We are half way through the 2018 WRC season, and it’s time to tackle the heat and sandy gravel conditions of the beautiful Mediterranean island of Sardinia. Based on the west coast, in the old town of Alghero. Rally Italia Sardegna have always been a challenge, Andreas Mikkelsen expects it to be tough this time as well.
The Norwegian can look at a fourth place from 2014 as his best result on the island. Together with co-driver Anders Jæger he would like to improve that result, but explains it can be a challenging event.
- Rally Italia Sardegna have never been our best rally, result wise. Even though our pace has been good, we have always hit trouble there and never really been able to fight in the lead. It’s a very challenging rally, with its high temperatures and rough conditions. Tyre-choices is crucial, explains the Hyundai-driver who is currently lying sixth in the Drivers Standings. Rally Italia Sardegna is probably the hardest rally for tyre-wear.
- Our starting-position for the first day should be good enough, and we will be pushing maximum from the start. At the same time, it is important to find the right balance between pushing and not make mistakes, it is so easy to make a mistake on these roads. It’s a rally that suits the car very well, so if we can manage to stay out of trouble I believe the podium is within reach. Points wise we are a bit behind after Rally Portugal, that was not our plan but unfortunately outside of our control. All we can focus on now is a good result for Sardegna and some important points!
All the best,