RK M-Sport World Rally Team’s Robert Kubica and Maciek Szczepaniak are on course for a solid result at this weekend’s XION Rally Argentina. Maintaining a cautious approach, the pairing kept their Ford Fiesta RS WRC clear of trouble and currently hold sixth position overall.
Swapping the Punilla Valley’s mountain tracks for the open roads of the Valle de Calamunchita, today’s stages may have provided less of a technical challenge but it was not without its perils. High-speed undulations and huge rocks lay in wait to punish a mistake and the crews had to maintain the same concentration levels they had adopted for the previous day.
With fewer tight corners, Robert and Maciek settled into their rhythm. Despite admitting that their guarded approach had resulted in notes that were not ideally suited to the faster sections, the pairing were satisfied with their compromise.
Conditions were far from ideal with rain and fog the order of the day, but the Poles rose to the challenge with a highly consistent performance.
Keeping his mind firmly fixed on the job in hand, Kubica is determined to make it through all 14 speed tests unscathed. On course to secure that goal, the popular driver looks set to take the next step in his development and continue his progression at the FIA World Rally Championship’s highest league.
Robert Kubica (6th) said:
“It has been a good day with no mistakes and no problems. The conditions were not so easy and we took it very cautiously in the fog this afternoon. We had a small moment on SS8 but it wasn’t a big drama and we are still here which is the main thing.
“Tomorrow looks like it could be another very difficult day, especially if there is a risk of fog. The stages will be a bit tighter again, but there is no point in taking any unnecessary risks. I am satisfied with the way things are going for the moment, so we just need to continue like this.”
Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said:
“I’m really pleased for Robert [Kubica]. He’s put in another very solid performance and steadily increased his pace without any major dramas or concerns. It’s great news for his confidence and for his progression as the season continues. We obviously have another very difficult day to come, but if he continues where he left off today, he’ll be on course for a very solid and encouraging result.”