Dani Sordo's decision to team up with new co-driver Patricia Saiz for Rally Sardinia this weekend has raised eyebrows. The Spanish veteran had been partnered with Candido Carrera for his three previous WRC outings this season. Now, he will be joined by 27-year-old Saiz, who has never competed at WRC level before.
It's a bold move. Saiz's experience comes mostly from domestic rally events in Spain. However, she and Sordo are no strangers: they have worked together on five rallies previously, and the pairing is seen as promising. Hyundai has given its blessing.
"He’s done some rallies in the past with the co-driver, and they seem to work well," said Hyundai sporting director Andrew Wheatley, addressing the surprise decision. His comments also quash any speculation of internal friction between Sordo and Carrera.
This season has been far from smooth for Sordo. The 43-year-old finished seventh on asphalt at Rally Islas Canarias and eighth in Portugal. At Acropolis Rally Greece, Hyundai withdrew him before the final special stage for tactical reasons. As a result, his performances have fallen short of team expectations.
"I don’t think he’s been the Dani that we expected this year. He’s had a lot of pressure. And coming back from Rally2 to Rally1 has been a bit of a step," Wheatley explained. Still, he insists Sordo's speed is intact, especially in Sardinia where he has traditionally excelled.
Hyundai is fighting to end a challenging season on a high. Out of 12 rounds so far, they have only one victory. "I think we have some pace in the car. The difficulty is that there are five very fast Toyotas, and beating five cars is not easy," Wheatley added.
Rally Sardinia, the season finale, takes place on 1–4 October. With a favourable start order, Sordo and Saiz could spring a surprise. At least, that's Hyundai's hope to close the season with a smile.
Baca Juga
Enni Malkonen memberi sinyal akan lanjut reli musim depan setelah pensiunnya Esapekka Lappi. Ia menutup musim dengan kemenangan di Porvoo dan gelar dunia kedua.
Esapekka Lappi pensiun setelah menang dramatis di Rally Finlandia. Simak cerita lengkap dan momen haru penutup kariernya di sini.
Esapekka Lappi menutup karier dengan kemenangan dramatis di Finnish Rally Championship Porvoo. Simak hasil lengkap dan reaksi para pembalap.
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