Articles

Flash info after the qualifying stage

28. 8. 2021 - Petr KOMÁREK, Stanislav PETŘÍK

After the qualifying test, we interviewed most of the drivers from the top positions of the starting field. According to them, the track was much more difficult by rainy weather, which caused them a lot of work behind the wheel. But, for example, Czech driver Erik Cais was satisfied. Many competitors tried to gain as much experience as possible, which will be useful for their next rides.

Andreas Mikkelsen (NOR, Škoda Fabia Rally2, starting number 2):
„Tricky conditions like we expected, a lot of mud, but it was predictable, no surprises."

Efrén Llarena (ESP, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 3):
„It could be better. We couldn´t disconnect the rear diff so we spent a lot of time in the mickey mouse section. On the other hand the car was comfortable. I felt good and enjoyed it."

Miko Marczyk (POL, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 4):
„We are happy. We were afraid because it was our first start on this legendary track Maják. On the one hand it was nice. The mickey mouse passage through the city and after that narrow way between trees. But I think we got a good place. We are only a few second behind Erik Cais and Jan Kopecký. Barum is very difficult race and we are going to try to get a lot of experience."

Norbert Herczig (HUN, Škoda Fabia Rally2, starting number 5):
„Very difficult day and the whole weekend will be difficult for everyone. Absolutely good warm up, until now we didn't drive in wet."

Jan Kopecký (CZE, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 6):
„We are ready for this Barum rally. There was more water on the track than we expected. But if the weather forecast is right it will not rain so much. We choose different strategy and went on slicks. We are satisfied because we got third place."

Jari Huttunen (FIN, Hyundai i20 R5, starting number 7):
„The qualifying stage was quite good. There was not anything surprising for us. The track was difficult due to weather conditions. Finally it was interesting experience."

Erik Cais (CZE, Ford Fiesta R5 MkII, starting number 8):
„I hope I'm in good shape. The weather conditions were suitable for us, although it was raining. We had a smaller problem but it does not mind. The second place is great."

Yoann Bonato (FRA, Citroën C3 Rally2, starting number 9):
„It was not easy for us, the conditions on the track were tricky. There were some slippery places and it made the difficulty level higher. For next stages it was good experience but today it was difficult."

Filip Mareš (CZE, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 10):
„My impressions after the qualifying stage are fine. It could be a little bit better but on the other hand it is hard. The conditions on the track are good for us with regard to the next stages during the weekend. It will be important not to make stupid mistakes.

Tomáš Kostka (CZE, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 12):
„It is difficult to say what are our goals in this Barum rally. I am happy we can start here, this year is very attractive. We will see how we will race. We will try to do everything as well as possible."

Dominik Stříteský (CZE, Škoda Fabia R5, starting number 14):
„Actually I'm in a good mood. It is my first Barum with this car. The weather conditions made some troubles but is it the same for each of us. We have to fight."

Miroslav Jakeš (CZE, Škoda Fabia R5, starting number 16):
„I think it is quite good. Of course it could be better. But some parts of the track are dangerous for their appearance. It is usual in Czech republic, for me it is the new aspect."

Martin Kočí (SVK, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 17):
„In fact I am here a bit unexpectedly but it is OK. I drove 25 kilometres and 30 kilometres during the test. It is a significant change compared to a car with front wheel drive."

Martin Vlček (CZE, Hyundai i20 N Rally2, starting number 21):
„There is a big mess on the track, that is all."

Alberto Battistolli (ITA, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 22):
„The conditions on the track were tricky. It was not that funny. But the result is not the most important thing for me. I want to get experience as much as possible."

Albert von Thurn und Taxis (GER, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 25):
„It was not very good, we had to go carefully. We will see what stages will follow. Anyway this one was difficult."

Luis Vilariño (ESP, Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, starting number 29):
„It was very difficult because it was raining. We will see what will follow during weekend."

Dmitry Feofanov (LVA, Suzuki Swift F4, starting number 34):
„Firstly I want to notice the track was full of complications at the beginning. Than my orientation was OK. Fortunately it was only the first stage. We will see what will follow."

Daniel Połoński (POL, Fiat 124 Abarth RGT, starting number 35):
„The track was slippery. But I was in a great condition. I managed this difficult stage and it was enjoyable."

Tibor Érdi junior (HUN, Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X, starting number 39):
„Fortunately it was only the qualifying stage so the time is good. I like races with rainy weather. I am looking forward to next stages."

Josep Bassas (ESP, Peugeot 208 Rally4, starting number 44):
„It was difficult because the track was wet. But the final result is quite good. We will have to continue, if we want to win."

Sami Pajari (FIN, Ford Fiesta Rally4, starting number 45):
„Is was difficult. I had some problems with driving in rainy weather. It is my first Barum and I did not expect this. Anyway I will try to go as well as possible."

Jean-Baptiste Franceschi (FRA, Renault Clio Rally4, starting number 46):
„I am satisfied. It is my first Barum and the time is good. The qualifying stage was determined by the rain, but we managed it. I think it is perfect training for tomorrow."

Nick Loof (DEU, Ford Fiesta Rally4, starting number 47):
„We did not risk, so we went carefully and tried not to make mistakes. Finally it is good and we are looking forward to weekend."

Łukasz Lewandowski (POL, Opel Corsa Rally4, starting number 48):
„It was only the qualifying stage so it's not all decided. Perhaps it will be difficult. Anyway this is the great race."