The Citroën DS3 WRCs handily placed

Between gravel and asphalt numerous incidents marked the Citroën Total World Rally Team’s first day on the Argentinean roads.

The first day of Rally Argentina was based around its best-known stages like Mina Clavero / Giulio Cesare and El Condor, and also included long sectors on asphalt It was a first in this event and the mixed conditions represented a real challenge in tyre management.

Sébastien Ogier was third this morning and he was fighting at the front all day despite a puncture on the asphalt in the El Condor stage (SS4), and a spin in the afternoon (SS5). He finished the first day of the rally in third place 28.8s behind the leader, just behind another Citroën DS3 WRC driven by Petter Solberg.

“We were always on the pace even if we were not at our best on the asphalt,” said Ogier. “We had a puncture this morning and I think I was maybe a bit over-cautious this afternoon. We’re in a very good position for tomorrow. The second day is taking place on roads that suit me a lot better even if it’ll be my first time racing on them. I hope that sweeping will help us a little. I have to find a good feeling right from the start so that I can push. I know we can win”

Olivier Quesnel, the Citroën Racing Team Principal added: “I know that Sébastien Ogier likes the stages on the second day. He’s going to push and he’s got every chance even if we know it’ll be complicated as he’s up against drivers who have much more experience in Argentina. We can expect a good scrap. I know Sébastien Loeb and I’m sure he’ll be able to get back into contention between now and Sunday afternoon. Everybody could be surprised. I think he can still fight for victory.”

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