Veiby targets Junior leader Tempestini
Title front-runners Simone Tempestini and Ole Christian Veiby face the sternest test of their championship credentials so far as the FIA Junior WRC switches to asphalt for the first time this season at ADAC Rallye Deutschland (18 - 21 August).
Tempestini’s (above) lead was trimmed to 18 points by Veiby (below) last time out in Finland after previously taking maximum points in Portugal and Poland, but the change to sealed roads from gravel raises the pressure on both.
Neither ranks asphalt as their favourite surface and while Tempestini’s advantage means the Italian can aim to control his pace, Norwegian Veiby must target maximum points at a rally he considers the most difficult of the season.
“I have never participated in Rally Germany before, but I did the recce last year and that gives me a hint of what to expect,” Veiby explained. “I’ve not driven on Tarmac since Monte Carlo in January and it felt like ages ago. I’m crossing my fingers that it will not rain, because that would make it an even tougher challenge,” he said.
Both must beware of French trio Vincent Dubert, Terry Folb and Romain Martel who are third, fourth and fifth in the points. Folb and Martel are asphalt experts and should challenge strongly.
Martin Koci needs big points to climb the standings while former single-seater race driver Mohamed Al Mutawaa completes the starters following the withdrawal of Andrea Crugnola. All drivers are at the wheel of Citroën DS 3 R3 cars.
