Thierry Neuville is targeting a podium finish in the sixth round of the FIA World Rally Championship that revs off in Naivasha, Kenya this weekend.
The Belgian and his navigator Martijn Wydaeghe dominated the African classic in the last season before smashing his Hyundai i20’s right rear damper on a rock in the final day of the competition.
“Last year’s event was tough,” he said. “I don’t think we deserved that retirement, I think we had driven well and we deserved the win. This year we are out for revenge.
“I have some good memories from my first visit to Kenya last year. It was a real adventure, as we got to discover the country, the culture, the beautiful scenery and the wildlife.
“But unfortunately, we left feeling disappointed as we were clearly in the lead and could have easily won the rally if it had not been for a small issue.”
The event has attracted a star-studded entry that includes some big teams that include Ford M-Sports ,Toyota Gazoo Team and Hyundai.
Toyota Gazoo Racing star Takamoto Katsuta is among the big names in the four days event that has attracted over 12 Hybrid cars.
“It’s very nice to be back in Kenya,” Katsuta said. “Last year was a nice rally for me and a nice result. Can I make that result again? I can’t say that, I can’t tell you – with this rally there is so much that can happen.
“Last year we were a little bit lucky, we had a broken damper and we were able to fix it and carry on. And this year there will be some more things happening like this for the cars, it’s a very big challenge.”
Local drivers have also been included in the event led by FIA Junior team of Mcrae Kimathi, Hamza Anwar, Maxine Wahome and Jeremy Wohome.
Photo credit:WRC
