Going into Rally Portugal, Thierry Neuville must have had doubts about the security of his championship lead. Extending his advantage as far as 24 points might even have seemed like wishful thinking.
An impressive performance – combined with a disappointing weekend for title rival Elfyn Evans – meant that was exactly what happened. Now the Hyundai driver has to do it all again at Rally Italy Sardinia.
So, what’s the strategy to securing a Portugal re-run? More of the same, that’s what.
Neuville knows what is required, but is still aware of the challenge he faces this weekend.
“The Friday is going to be important, so we have to go for it,” he told DirtFish at the end of Rally Portugal. “I have already won it from starting first on the road in Sardinia, so nothing is impossible, but it’s definitely the most challenging one to win from the first on the road.”
Challenging it most certainly is, especially with another driver who knows a thing or two about winning from first place on the entry list: Sébastien Ogier. The Toyota driver starts fifth and will again be able to take advantage of others clearing a path ahead of him.
Neuville is standing tall at the top of the drivers' championship table
What is not the same in Sardinia is the itinerary. A new-for-2024 format offers uncertainty about the impact of road position on the result. Friday’s competitive mileage has dropped from 88 miles to just 48, while Saturday has increased from 83 miles to 93.
Just how much difference Friday’s reduction in miles will make is unclear.
“It probably will work against me,” Neuville said. “Starting first, you can only try to increase your position day by day, and that won’t be the case in Sardinia.”
It’s not all bad though. While most of the drivers were complaining about setup in Portugal, Neuville was one of the few who was happy with his machinery. But he isn’t resting on his laurels, and believes there could be more to come.
“Generally, a few little areas where I want to work on in terms of traction,” he explained. “Improve a bit the tire wear. Let’s see if we can do something.”
