Co-driver Ola Fløene says Andreas Mikkelsen’s speed on asphalt has improved significantly following sessions with ex-Formula One racer Alex Wurz.
The reigning Intercontinental Rally Challenge champion is one of the fastest drivers in the sport but has yet to win a round of the IRC on Tarmac. However, he’s getting close and came within one stage of winning Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Inglés last week until a mechanical failure forced him to settle for second place.
“Alex Wurz helped Andreas when he was in the FIA Academy Institute last year with his driving technique and it’s paying off,” said Fløene. “Before Andreas used to attack every corner like he was driving on gravel but now he’s less aggressive into the corner, braking earlier with less left-foot braking. Because of this the tyres survive longer and don’t overheat and he has more speed.”
Mikkelsen, who drives a Fabia Super 2000 for ŠKODA UK Motorsport, currently holds an 18-point advantage in the IRC standings after two rounds.