Photo credit: www.motorsport.com
Elfyn Evans has emphasized that holding a lead of nearly two minutes does not guarantee success, especially considering the extreme challenges posed by this year’s Safari Rally, which has been described as the toughest since its return to the World Rally Championship (WRC). As he enters the final stages of the event, Evans maintains a 1 minute and 57.4 seconds lead over Hyundai’s Ott Tanak, following a weekend of unpredictable and treacherous conditions.
While Evans remains the only Rally1 driver to navigate the first 16 stages without major setbacks, he did encounter a spin during stage 14 and struggled with low visibility due to running out of windscreen washer fluid. “We have faced numerous challenges and the experience has certainly been tough,” Evans remarked. “Although a two-minute lead would typically seem secure, it’s a different story here.” He indicated his intent to maintain a steady approach rather than aiming for an all-out offensive on the final day.
Beginning Saturday with a narrow 7.7 seconds over fellow competitor Kalle Rovanpera, Evans witnessed a significant shift as Rovanpera faced a series of misfortunes including punctures and a collision with a rock during stage 14. This unfortunate turn forced Rovanpera to conduct makeshift repairs with ratchet straps in order to return to service.
“It was difficult to manage this part of the car as we had never encountered such issues before. We had limited alternatives,” Rovanpera explained, acknowledging the setbacks yet remaining hopeful for advantageous points on Sunday.
Takamoto Katsuta, Aaron Johnston, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
In another challenging turn for Toyota, Takamoto Katsuta suffered his sixth puncture of the competition. Despite overcoming food poisoning, Katsuta displayed impressive speed, capturing a stage win in exceptionally difficult, waterlogged conditions. Although a puncture in the last stage of the day hindered his performance, he still secured a noteworthy fourth place, trailing Evans by over five minutes.
Hyundai Enjoys a Podium Comeback Amidst Safari Chaos
Hyundai faced potential jeopardy of losing podium positions due to the challenges their i20 Ns encountered amid the relentless wet conditions, especially with Katsuta’s rapid ascent. Ott Tanak and Thierry Neuville, both wrestling with performance issues throughout Saturday, ultimately benefitted from the predicaments of Rovanpera and Katsuta, finishing in second and third places respectively.
Tanak struggled to replicate his strong pace from Friday’s stages, suffering a puncture during stage 11 that cost him valuable time. His visibility was further compromised by a misty windscreen in stage 14, likening the conditions to the most challenging he has faced in the WRC.
Thierry Neuville, Martijn Wydaeghe, Hyundai World Rally Team Hyundai i20 N Rally1
Photo by: Fabien Dufour / Hyundai Motorsport
Thierry Neuville, battling illness throughout the race, described finishing third as a significant achievement considering the circumstances. “The tough conditions were almost unreal, and I struggled to maintain focus, but I’m proud of our effort,” he remarked, noting the extraordinary conditions and expressing gratitude for finishing in a competitive position.
On a different note, M-Sport-Ford drivers Gregoire Munster and Josh McErlean successfully maneuvered through the tempestuous conditions, achieving the best times in stage 15. Benefiting from a favorable road position, their performances were commendable, though Munster humorously suggested that a “jet ski” would have been more suitable for navigating the challenging wet terrain.
As the day concluded, Munster secured seventh place, while McErlean, after a lengthy morning repair, positioned himself in 13th. Gus Greensmith emerged as the leader of the WRC2 class, maintaining eighth overall.
Photos Rally Kenya Day 3
Through the ups and downs of the rally, the resilience and skill of these drivers continue to be tested, leading to an unpredictable final day ahead.
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