Sordo targets podium in Sardinia

Citroen’s number two driver Dani Sordo says he’s aiming for a third consecutive podium finish on the forthcoming Rally d’Italia in Sardinia.

The Spaniard finished third on Rally Mexico and spent much of the Jordan Rally in the lead before a tactical manoeuvre from Ford on the final day dropped him to second.

Previously known as an asphalt driving specialist, Sordo’s performances on the most recent rounds have highlighted his growing competitiveness on loose surfaces.

And the fact that he won the J-WRC category in Sardinia in 2005 and was third in 2006 and 2007 in a World Rally Car suggest he’s right at home on the Island’s stages.

But despite his past successes in Sardinia Sordo maintains he is not a fan of the event. “It’s not my favourite," he said. "I think it will be tricky and tyres promise to play a major role. For instance, how will our Pirelli hard compound tyres - which we won't be able to cut - perform here? And with so many rocks about, it will be important to steer clear of punctures."

Sordo also said that while his experiences in Jordan had increased his confidence, they had also highlighted some areas for development. "Leading is nice but not always easy," he admitted. "I had an excellent feeling with my car and the times I posted were big confidence boosters. Although I believe I still lack experience when it comes to finishing, adapting the way I drive and regarding how best to approach running first on the road, Jordan was positive on those fronts, too."