Both Citroen crews finished the recce around 4 pm yesterday afternoon, like most of the other competitors, thanks to the fact that the 2005 route is exactly the same as last year.
The same stages will be competed in the same order: "After 200 rallies including 120 participations in World Rally Championship events, it`s the first time it happens to me!" explained experienced co-driver Stéphane Prévot.
Sébastien Loeb and François Duval have both noticed during the recce that the terrain was as difficult as it was meant to be: "Maybe a bit less stones on the roads," continues Stéphane, "but it`s also a bit more rutted." It looks that the organisers used a grader in some sections but the rally will definitely be as rough as expected. Hot too, as temperatures were topping 20°C very early this morning.
Six identical stages but a new service park. Located on tarmac, it settled next to the brand new Sports Hall which has been built in the Northern suburbs of Lemesos.
The usual shakedown, at the foot of the Stavrovouni monastery was changed to the benefit of a new test close to Palodeia, only six kilometres away the new single service area.
This new special stage was far from pleasing to all drivers: "It looks like nothing else, it`s not representative," said Duval. "It`s only 2 kilometres long. There are three very tight corners at the start then a faster section in which you can`t really push as it`s extremely narrow."
Daniel Elena summarised: "On this road, if you understeer you will damage the front wheeldrive, if you oversteer, you will damage the rear axle!"
The Citroën drivers only completed two or three cautious runs to make sure their cars were working perfectly.
After the traditional press conference at lunchtime, the drivers will attend the ceremonial start at 20.30 located as usual on the `Lemesos promenade` on the seafront.


Tags: cyprus, gravel, shakedown, stage,