Before the Swedish Rally 2006
After a good performance from the entire team at the Monte Carlo Rally, Kronos Team Principal Marc Van Dalen is looking forward to another positive weekend in Sweden.

What is your analysis of the Monte Carlo Rally?
“I won`t hide that we were hoping for a win there… But the way the rally ended allowed us to realise once more that Seb` is an incredible fighter. His recovery was the most exciting moment of the rally. I`ve also noticed that in real Monte Carlo conditions, the Xsara remains capable to win even compared to the new cars of our rivals. However I`m still cautious and we have learned a few things for the tarmac events to come. Our two young Spanish drivers pleased me after they managed to reach the finish without making any mistake. The enormous motivation of everybody and the harmony created in the team, are also some very positive points.”

Kronos has never competed in Sweden. Isn`t there a risk that you lack of experience?
“If I`d answered no, it will sound presumptuous. Mexico and Japan will also be new events to us. It`s part of the challenge that we were ready to take up this year. But as far as Sweden is concerned, we will obviously discover some things, especially because this event is unique in its category. We prepared it the best we could and we tried to think about all the tiny details while we benefited from the help of Citroën Sport` who took part in the event four times. On event, we would have to be even more careful and reactive than usual if something happens. In these new conditions to us, I know we can rely on the team`s good level of cooperation demonstrated in Monaco.”

What will you be asking of your drivers over the next event?
“First of all, I don`t give any objectives to the drivers, but to the technical team. Engineers and mechanics will have to give Sebastien, Xevi and Dani the best cars as possible. Between the drivers and me, it`s much more an open discussion as each of them knows already what to expect from the rally. Winner in 2004, Seb will obviously go for a victory. Xevi knows the event but never competed in a WRC there. He will have to do his best to bring back the maximum number of points. And for Dani, who has never been to Sweden before, he is free to do his own race like in Monte Carlo. He has perfectly understood a very simple fact: when you want to learn, you learn more if you reach the finish.”

Tags: rally,