Yassen Popov focussing on tyre-testsCurrent Bulgarian National Rally Champion Yassen Popov completed tests for his WRC-debut in Monte Carlo this weekend in the Aspang/Lower Austria area. In his home country the OMV driver had already had lots of experience on tarmac. Therefore the focus was mainly on snow surface conditions that are typical for the first WRC-run, as well as on the proper choice of tyres.
New car provides good feeling
The Mitsubishi Evo VIII, prepared by Stohl Racing, celebrated its `maiden voyage` on Saturday in Austria. The team`s main focus was on the proper choice of tyres for the WRC assignment.
Three different sets of Michelin tyres were put to the test. After about 80 completed kilometres in the Aspang/Lower Austria area a highly motivated Yassen Popov said: "Our testing focussed above all on the ice and snow conditions that are typical for Monte Carlo. The team did a perfect job – I`m really feeling at home in the car and want to reach the finish on Sunday at my WRC-debut."
Team Manager Günther Aschacher is even more confident as far as the OMV duo Yassen and Dillyan Popov is concerned. "Yassen has a perfect grip on the car. I`m quite sure that these two will win the first WRC-points for the team," Aschacher said.
Preparations are at full speed
The team had already departed on Sunday for Monte Carlo in order to inspect all sections leading to and from the special stages. The training for the `74th Rallye Automobile Monte Carlo` has commenced today – with conditions ranging from rain in Monte Carlo to deep winter in the mountains.
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