Meet the crews Day 1 – 08-21-2013

Participants:
Jari-Matti Latvala, Volkswagen Motorsport
Dani Sordo, Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team
Thierry Neuville, Qatar World Rally Team


Q:
Jari-Matti Latvala, being the fastest driver on gravel is pretty normal – but now at the shakedown too – this surprises us a little
JML:
Oh, that was only a short shakedown – the rally itself will start tomorrow. After Finland, I’ve been driving on tarmac for the first time again, but I also had a good feeling. Last year at this popular rally I at least became second. And it is really difficult with all of the three different sorts of tarmac. (Glances at Th. Neuville) Maybe this rally is a little similar to the Ypres Rally in Belgium.
Q:
Your team-mate Sébastien Ogier is able to win the drivers title here early. How important is this title chance for you and for Volkswagen?
JML:
For Volkswagen, the Rallye Deutschland is a home game, so it is really important for the German market. Of course, Sébastien has a good chance to win the championship, but still, we didn’t have a team strategy. We want to keep the sport fair. I will drive fully concentrated – flat out.

Q:
Second-fastest time at the shakedown for Dani Sordo – no surprise for a tarmac expert?
DS:
Of course I’m happy with my really good time – I have gained lots of confidence with the car and that way I also have a good feeling for the rally. Until now, I have had good results here, so I also have a good chance to win here. My strategy comes down to maximum speed in all stages – of course.

Q:
For Thierry Neuville, the season really went well until now, especially in Finland lately, we have seen even more exciting battles on gravel with Mads Östberg and Mikko Hirvonen. On tarmac over here, will this continue to be as exciting as well?
TN:
At this ADAC Rallye Deutschland I have my eyes set on a podium position. I will give a hundred percent of performance – despite the possible risks- and will see what my competitors will show. I look forward consequently.