RK M-Sport World Rally Team’s Robert Kubica embarked on the first pure asphalt event of the year with the aim of building the experience that will prove vital to his progression at the height of the FIA World Rally Championship.
The Formula One race winner is something of an expert when it comes to Tarmac, but the countless hairpins which have come to characterise Rallye Deutschland would be no easy task for the WRC 2 Champion.
Carrying too much speed into a junction on the first pass of Moselland (SS3), the Pole was unable to apply the required steering lock to save the inevitable slide and his Ford Fiesta RS WRC became a victim of the vineyards. With help from the ever-passionate German spectators, the Pole was able to get back on the stage but dropped more than four minutes to the leaders as a result.
Regrouping for the second loop, Robert proved that his earlier mistake would have no effect on his pace. Putting in a highly consistent performance, he continues to gain the knowledge and momentum that will see him progress at this level.
Robert Kubica (22nd) said:
“It hasn’t been easy, but we are learning a lot. We made a mistake on the last stage this morning [Moselland, SS3] and we had another small mistake in there this afternoon [SS6] and had to reverse. I know why it happened, and because of that I can regain my confidence tomorrow. I’ve learnt a lot today and I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s stages when I hope we can show some more progression and continue to learn.”
Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said:
“Robert [Kubica] came here very focused on gaining the knowledge and experience that will see him progress in the future. He was unlucky to be caught out this morning. There was a tight hairpin followed by a 45 degree junction and he arrived slightly too fast to make the corner. He was able to finish the stage, and it was encouraging to see that it had no effect on his pace through the afternoon. Knowing Robert, he’ll be more determined than ever to make in through the remainder of the stages and continuing his progression at this level.”