Cumbrians hope to turn fortunes in Sweden

CHIEFS at the M-sport World Rally Team will be eyeing a turn of fortune in the final stages of Rally Sweden today as they hope to bounce back from a dismal season opener.

The Cumbrian squad fielded three drivers in the premier class at the first round of the year in Monte Carlo last month, but Elfyn Evans was forced to retire his car while Teemu Suninen and Pontus Tidemand finished dead last.

But Team Principal Richard Millener insists he and the squad is putting the disappointment behind them as they aim to take advantage of the notorious conditions in Scandinavia.

“We’ve regrouped after Monte and are determined to do better in Sweden,” Millener said. “If the conditions are good, all three drivers could have a good road position and, if that is the case, it will be important to make the most of the advantage. Elfyn is a previous Rally Sweden category winner and people often forget the names he beat to take that WRC 2 victory back in 2016. Teemu doesn’t have as much experience as people might expect when it comes to winter rallying, but he’s a quick learner and keen to show what he can do.

“Pontus is the local hero who grew up on these [Swedish] roads. It’s important not to put too much pressure on his shoulders, but we know his potential so I wouldn’t be surprised to see some good times from him.”