- After yesterday’s podium lock out, the Peugeot DKR scored another hat-trick at the finish of the second stage today in Russia. Peugeot is 1-2-3 in the overall ranking as well, leading the way and increasing the gap with other competitors after just two stages.
- Stephane Peterhansel won the stage from Cyril Despres, 2nd (+1min47) and Sebastien Loeb 3rd for just one second (+1min48).
- The Peugeot DKR Maxi opened the 157km road of today’s challenging stage, much slippery and muddy, with few flooded areas. All three Peugeot DKRs conquered the tricky conditions without any issues.
Once more, the Peugeots have dominated the action on day two of the Silk Way Rally, despite extreme weather conditions and damaged terrains. The short stage to Ufa again featured narrow and technical roads with some navigational challenges as well. Team Peugeot Total has increased its margin over its nearest competitor, but the first really long competitive section starts tomorrow, with plenty to be gained or lost.
Stéphane PETERHANSEL,Team Peugeot Total driver
Winner of Silk Way Rally stage #2 / 1st overall
« In these conditions it was hard to keep control of the car. We made a few small mistakes with navigation but without serious consequences. I am glad with finish in the top. The rally has started well for us but it’s important to be careful as the hard part is still to come. Team Peugeot knows it. »
Cyril DESPRES
Team Peugeot Total Driver
2nd of Silk Way Rally stage #2 / 3rd overall
« Tricky conditions for racing today, with mud and holes that were full of water. Everything is going well for now but the main thing is to come out of the first week with no major issue. In conditions like these, it’s easy to make a mistake. I feel good with the Peugeot DKR. I’m focused!
»
Sébastien LOEB
Team Peugeot Total Driver
3rd of Silk Way Rally stage #2 / 2nd overall
«This was a tricky day! Like yesterday we raced with plenty of mud and not much grip. It’s pretty much what I expected but given the fact that we were first on the road it wasn’t too bad for us. No problems so far. The team makes a good job. »
TOMORROW’S STAGE
Tomorrow competitors will drive from Ufa to Kostanay for the “River Tobol in sight” leg. It totals 876.39 km with the special stage covering 329.25 km. This is a particularly fast stage with many directional changes, so co-drivers will once again need to know the road book inside out. This is the last special stage in Russia before crossing the border to Kazakhstan.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Next year for the first time Silk Way will be open to motorbike competitors meaning there will be three categories in 2018: cars, trucks and motorcycles. It is not yet known how many bikes might join, but it will be sure to be a tough test with motorcycle riders having to be a jack of all trades; driving, navigating the route and maintaining their bike.
