Tuesday | 10 Nov 2015

Vampire Mikkelsen has feast planned in Wales

Andreas Mikkelsen says his win at last month's RallyRACC Catalunya-Costa Daurada has given him 'a taste for blood' and the desire to get another meal at this week's Wales Rally GB.

The Norwegian grabbed his maiden WRC victory on the last stage in Spain when his Volkswagen team-mate Sébastien Ogier crashed out of the lead. And having taken the top step of the winners' podium for the first time, the 26-year-old is eager for a repeat on the upcoming final round.

“The maiden WRC victory for [co-driver] Ola and me at the Rally Spain was very special – especially as it means that monkey is now off our back and we can put our foot down at the Rally Great Britain without any pressure," he said.

"I have a special connection with Wales: I moved there at the age of 17 to get my driving license. I also contested my first WRC rally in Wales. As such, it is always a nice feeling to return to these routes. Like the Rally Sweden, the Rally Great Britain is something of a home race for me.

"You always have to be ready for poor weather in Wales. That always makes the rally a bit tricky, as the special stages are extremely muddy and slippery. I have a taste for blood after winning in Spain and now want to win again as soon as possible," he added.

An extra incentive for Mikkelsen to go all out for victory in Wales is that it might secure him runner-up spot in the 2015 drivers' championship.

His team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala currently holds the position with a 24-point lead. But with a maximum 28 points up for grabs in Wales, Mikkelsen is the only driver able to steal it.

More News

Video: Get set for Wales