Andreas Mikkelsen happy after Wales Rally GB

Getting that final spot on the podium ended up in a thrilling battle for seconds. Andreas attacked maximum on the final day, and ended with a strong P4.

October 29, 2017

Getting that final spot on the podium ended up in a thrilling battle for seconds. Andreas attacked maximum on the final day, and ended with a strong P4.

Ahead of the 2017 season’s penultimate round, Andreas told us that the target was a spot on the podium, but at the same time said that it would be a challenge. With the late starting position on Friday he knew it would be challenging to be on the same speed as the front runners. He was seventh O/A after Friday stages, but a podium position was within reach, as it was only 30 seconds up to P3. With a better starting position on Saturday the battle for seconds started, and at the end of day 2, the podium were only 10 seconds away.

– I gave it all to get that podium, but this time it wasn’t enough, says Andreas, who also won two of the five stages on Sunday.

Anders and I have delivered a solid performance all weekend. Friday were difficult as we were starting so far behind the others, with more challenging conditions. Saturday and Friday the conditions were more equal, and we climbed in the classification. On the final day we gave it all, and we couldn’t have gone any faster. We were close, but not close enough – still I’m very happy. Let’s go for a podium in Australia!

Elfyn Evans took his maiden win at his home-event, after leading the rally nearly from start to finish. Thierry Neuville came second, while Sebastien Ogier ended third – and also secured his 5th championship.