SS17 – The new stage proves to be difficult to master

The Luihas stage has proven itself to be a tricky one to master this morning, with several drivers finding it hard to maintain a solid pace, while others have suffered mid-stage spins. The stage hasn’t been used since 2001 so for most of the drivers it’s completely new. And with that, challenging.

Kris Meeke and Hayden Paddon both spun on the stage, costing them valuable seconds in the process. Others completed the stage after struggling to find grip or maintain a clean line.

However, while the stage was indeed difficult, it was still of great benefit to M-Sport’s Sebastien Ogier, who continues to lead the rally. He completed the stage 8.09.7s, 3.3s ahead of Hyundai Motorsport drivers, Dani Sordo and Thierry Neuville, who both posted the same time of 8.13s.

Third fastest over the stage was M-Sport’s Ott Tanak, who has continued his push despite earlier problems in the rally.