Elfyn targets repeat of 2017 WRGB success

October 3, 2019 0 Comments

Having missed three rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship thanks to a back injury sustained on the non-championship Rally Estonia, Elfyn Evans is fit and raring to go on this weekend’s Wales Rally GB – and aiming to repeat his fantastic 2017 victory.

The 30-year old Dolgellau ace was enjoying a good season before hurting his back after a heavy and awkward landing in July.

“I actually finished the rally – there was some pain but it was only after visiting a specialist on my return to the UK that the full extent of the injury was revealed,” said Elfyn. “They told me it was advisable not to keep driving for fear of making it worse.”

That meant that he was forced to miss rallies in Finland, Germany and Turkey, slipping from fourth to ninth in the WRC drivers’ standings in the process.

But now he and co-driver Scott Martin are back, and M-Sport has built them a brand new Ford Fiesta WRC for the event.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back behind the wheel – especially as it’s on home soil in Wales,” adds Elfyn. “This event is the highlight of my year, every year, and when you get it right in front of all those Welsh flags it’s an incredible feeling.

“We have some of the best stages in the world in Wales, and it’s a proper challenge for the crews – especially if the Welsh weather has anything to say about it which I think it probably will next week. In those tricky conditions the grip levels are constantly changing and you have to be able to read the road if you want to push for the top results.

“We might have been away for a few months, but my motivation is as high as it ever was. We’ve had a good test, and I feel like we’re well prepared for the challenges ahead. And the goal, as always, is to push for the top results.”

Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin wear Stilo WRC DES Zero 8860 helmets.