After a ten-week break, the WRC will continue this years season with Rally Deutschland and Rally Finland. When the circus moves to Finland, the current leaders of the JWRC, Patrik Sandell and Emil Axelsson, are ready to continue their succesful debut season. With one victory (Rally d’Italia Sardegna) and two second places, they have been one of this years big surprises in the JWRC.
How have you prepared yourself for Rally Finland?
- I have increased my fitness training, to be in better shape. This will help me to stay focused and concentrated for a longer time, which will lead to a better performance, says Patrik.
The first week of August we drove a a two-day long test in Sweden together with Renault Sport. To confirm the test we also competed in a Swedish Championship event, as VIP-car. The test went on very well during the two days and we were able to improve the handling of the car. Now we have a car that really should fit the demanding Finnish roads and I am eager to get to the start in Finland, says Patrik.
What do you think about your chances in Finland?
- My aim is to do my best and try to achive the best result possible. You may not forget that this is my debut season and the events are very demanding for a rookie. Hopefully, Emil and I gained some experiance when we did the recce in Finland last year. But there are many drivers, that wants to stand on top of the podium at Sunday, says Patrik.
You can read more about Patrik and Emil on www.patriksandell.com
Rallyreporter// Ida Hallquist