Q: Thierry, you were third going into the final stage but ended in second after Mikko lost time. It has been a strong weekend for you, especially on your debut event in Australia!
Yes. I came to this event and I wanted to increase the gap between myself and Jari-Matti [Latvala], I didn’t think about wanting to stop him [Ogier] being champion. On the first day I was out of the rhythm, but it got better and finally it was a good result for us. We have scored good points for us and this is another step forward. I must be happy – we had a great rally with the Qatar M-Sport team, there were no problems on the car. I must be happy with the whole season and I am looking forward to the next two rallies. In France, I hope to fight with the two Sebs and I am sure Mikko and Jari-Matti will be in the fight as well.
Q: On the opening morning you were not comfortable - why was that?
Coming from Germany and driving the car on tarmac I didn’t feel anything on the gravel. I know from the past that when I switch cars, it takes me too much time – the notes were too optimistic. We had to change a lot. I know I have to work on this. We see that I always lose time on the first day of a rally and then get stronger – we have to work on this.
Q: There are three rallies left; can we see a Neuville win?
Of course I’m going to try again, but it’s not easy – we give our best. There is another step for us to get on Seb’s pace, I know that but I know I have a little time to improve on this point. It’s also interesting for the Championship when there are a few more drivers fighting. But we do have another step to take.