M-Sport-Ford sees the Safari Rally Kenya as a crucial opportunity in the World Rally Championship amidst its extreme conditions, despite having fewer resources than rivals. New drivers Gregoire Munster and Josh McErlean prepare for challenging stages. Team principal Richard Milliner underscores a careful approach to achieve strong results, reflecting optimism from the team and drivers.
M-Sport-Ford recognizes the Safari Rally Kenya as a significant opportunity to achieve competitive success in the World Rally Championship. The rally conditions are extreme and unpredictable, posing challenges across its 21 demanding stages. Despite having fewer resources than competitors such as Toyota and Hyundai, M-Sport has demonstrated its potential in the past, notably with Adrien Fourmaux securing a third-place finish last year.
As the team readies for the rally, they embody a shift in expectations with newer drivers Gregoire Munster and Josh McErlean forming the lineup for 2025. Both drivers have recently displayed promising performance in Monte Carlo and Sweden, even as M-Sport manages a more modest outlook for this campaign.
Richard Milliner, the M-Sport team principal, emphasizes the need for a careful approach amidst the rally’s tough stages. He notes that this year’s best result was sixth place from part-time driver Martins Sesks in Sweden. Milliner remarked, “Kenya is always one of the most exciting, yet extreme, events on the calendar.”
Driver Gregoire Munster, reflecting on the unique challenges of the Safari Rally, expressed his enthusiasm, “I’m really looking forward to Safari Rally Kenya… the heavy rain can be really intense, and the terrain is always changing.” He continues to emphasize the event’s thrilling characteristics after facing difficulties last year.
In addition, rookie Josh McErlean is eager to confront the rally’s demanding courses, stating, “This iconic event pushes drivers, co-drivers, and machines to their absolute limits.” He praised M-Sport’s preparation for the specific challenges presented by the Safari Rally.
In summary, M-Sport-Ford views the Safari Rally Kenya as a pivotal chance for success despite limited resources compared to larger teams. The expectation revolves around sensible driving in challenging conditions, with new drivers prepared to embrace the rally’s unpredictability. With both the team principal and drivers expressing optimism, they aim for commendable results amidst the extreme elements of the rally’s landscape.
Original Source: www.dazn.com
