Solberg hyped for close WRC2 action, eager for Safari return

World Rally Championship 2 (WRC2) championship leader Oliver Solberg has praised his Toksport Škoda team-mate Gus Greensmith’s drive on last week’s Safari Rally Kenya, but admitted the pair of them are going to face plenty of competition in the race for this year’s title.

Running in WRC2 for the first time this season, Greensmith won the event after Solberg dropped time stopping to change one of two punctures on the opening day of the Naivasha-based rally.

Solberg’s second place in Kenya follows a Sweden win to move him into a clear lead in the Rally2-only category.

WRC points leader Neuville takes positives from brutal Safari

“There’s going to be a lot of competition [in WRC2] this year, that’s sure,” said Solberg. “It’s going to be tough this year. Gus did a very good job on Safari, but, honestly, I think there’s going to be a lot of quick drivers coming in different rallies.”

He continued, “I try to stay consistent and fast. I have to be happy with this result [in Kenya]. Of course, I am a little bit disappointed. I came here to win, but this rally is a big, big challenge and to come away with points for second and the championship lead is good.”

Solberg admits the chance to win was lost on the first day when he got two punctures on two stages. “Honestly, I still think back to those and I don’t understand where the punctures came from. But we said all of the time that the Safari Rally has some surprises and some excitement and that’s part of the appeal – it’s part of the challenge of this place.”

“Like we said at the start of the year, we need to be strategic about the program. I really want to win this title this season, it’s what everything is geared towards. So, that makes this event a success. We have points and the championship lead – and some fastest times which is nice,” he added.

And the Swede couldn’t get enough of Kenya.

“I absolutely love the rally, I love the people and the atmosphere around here. It’s just fantastic, every time you get out of the car you are surrounded by people smiling, wanting a selfie everybody is just happy and pleased to see you. It’s a very cool place and very cool rally and I’m already looking forward to coming back!”

By WRC.com