Hyundai driver Dani Sordo explains what rally Mexico means for him and what his expectations are for this year’s edition.
What are the biggest challenges you face on Rally Mexico?
“For me, Mexico is a special rally, always really hot. It’s not the most difficult, but the main difference is the altitude and the loss of engine power that causes – although with the new World Rally Cars you have much more power so we should be equal to a normal rally from last year. The rally will be fun, much faster than previously. The stages are nice and the people are incredible.”
What are the good and not so good points about the event?
“The spectators and the organisation are really good. I don’t like the flight there because it’s too long for me and then you have the strange feeling from the altitude. But there’s nothing bad about the rally.”
How much experience do you have on gravel in the Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC?
“We tested on gravel quite recently to get more information about the car, the set-up and the data, which was good and we’re positive.”
Rally Mexico 2017 opens with a new stage in México City. Excited?
“The organisers know how to do their work properly and we can see from previous years in Guanajuato how they do a really good stage with a lot of people. I am sure in México City there will be even more spectators, so it’s going to be fantastic.”
What are your best memories of Rally Mexico?
“Last year when we did a podium after a really nice rally. It was a special moment for me until we received the penalty, which can happen, but doesn’t take away the fact that we produced a strong performance.”
Does Rally Mexico feel like a home event for you?
“It does because the people speak the same language, but the spectators are nice with every driver even if they don’t speak Spanish. Maybe the support is a bit more for me because they can understand me better.”
How good are you on gravel and what can you do to improve?
“Every day you can improve a bit. I try to do my best all the time and when the surface has grip I feel I am at a good level. When the surface is slippery, I have more difficulties, but I think I am doing everything to get stronger in these conditions.”
The WRC TV recce crew have been out on the @RallyMexico stages. They are looking as good & as tough as normal. #WRC ? @OmarWRC pic.twitter.com/9EsxuAt0xk
— WRC (@OfficialWRC) 7 March 2017
