Elfyn Evans leads the WRC standings and approaches the Safari Rally Kenya with optimism. He acknowledges the unique challenges of the rally due to unpredictable weather and the new Hankook tyres. Despite past misses, Evans aims to improve his standings with hopes of securing a win this season, building on his strong start.
Toyota GAZOO Racing driver Elfyn Evans holds a 28-point lead in the standings after two successful rounds of the season. However, he acknowledges that the unpredictable African terrain and climate during the Safari Rally may alter the race’s dynamics significantly. Evans remarked, “The Safari is a unique rally with a special set of conditions to face.” He emphasized that even when the weather is dry, it poses its own challenges, but rain and standing water complicate matters further.
This year’s Safari Rally is distinguished by the introduction of Hankook’s new tyre specifically designed for gravel. Evans stated, “The focus moves to gravel where the learning starts again with another new tyre.” He emphasized the importance of their recent tests for familiarizing with both the vehicle and the new tyre specifications, stating that while test conditions were not reflective of Kenyan roads, they offered valuable experience.
Heading into the event, Evans exudes confidence stemming from a solid season start. “It’s been a good start to the year for us and we can be happy with how well the first two events have gone,” he noted. Although he has not yet secured a victory at the Safari Rally, he has narrowly missed out in previous years, finishing on the podium in 2021 and 2023.
Evans believes the rally has proved beneficial for his team in recent years, declaring, “This has been an amazing rally for the team over recent years.” Despite his difficulties at this event in the past, he is determined to aim high and hopes to challenge for a victory if the opportunity arises.
Elfyn Evans is preparing for the Safari Rally Kenya, confident and leading the standings. He acknowledges the unique challenges posed by the rally’s terrain and new tyre technology. While he has yet to win at the Safari, his previous podium finishes motivate him to strive for victory. Evans aims to build on his promising start to the season, ready to confront whatever challenges may arise during the race.
Original Source: www.wrc.com
