Hyundai, a victory in paying taxes to Craig Breen?

The Croatian rally is undoubtedly an important date in the calendar for all those involved in the WRC, and especially for the Hyundai clan. Last year, the public world lost Craig Breen, at the beginning of the protests in the Balkans. Obviously, this new version will be marked with many features to honor the memory of the Hyundai driver. Starting with the reappearance of a special livery in Irish colours.

“It’s definitely a feeling to be back in Croatia after losing Craig a year ago, emphasizes Cyril Abiteboul, head of the team of the Korean team. We want to honor him and have tried to do that through our charity efforts and adding an Irish flag to our car. »

For Hyundai, the best tribute would be performing on the Croatian tarmac. « For both championships, and for Craig, we want to finish as close as possible to the top step of the podium. A win would cap off the weekend nicely. “, continues the French engineer.

Croatian Challenge

After the controversial Kenya Rally, Hyundai wants to relaunch the 100% tarmac event, the first of the season. The Hyundai i20 Rally1 Hybrid has already shown, in Monte-Carlo, that it is capable of performing on this surface. Which makes Thierry Neuville optimistic about his chances of getting a good result.

“Croatia is one of the most asphalt meetings I have participated in, sighs the Belgian pilot. There are many blind corners, crests and jumps, which is very common for an asphalt event. The car must be kept completely dry and wet due to the unpredictability of the weather. It is important to finish in the top three positions to maintain the lead in the drivers’ championship. Our main goal is victory. »

The return of Andreas Mikkelsen

Andreas Mikkelsen also takes advantage of this meeting to get back behind the wheel. The Norwegian will start his second event, after 6th place in Monte Carlo, during the opening round. “I feel good after a good start to the season in Monte-Carlo, describes the person concerned. It’s good to get back behind the wheel of a Hyundai for the WRC circuit. It is clear that our position on the road at the beginning of the weekend will be at a loss, especially if it rains due to the amount of mud that is kicked up. We are aiming for the podium, but if the going gets tough, we want to finish in the top 5.

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