Malcolm Wilson believes Ott Tanak’s tough time on Rally Sweden will stand him in good stead for the rest of his campaign in the 2012 FIA World Rally Championship powered by Nokia.
Embarking on his first full WRC programme with the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team, Tanak lost time on the opening leg of Rally Sweden after going off the road following a late call from his co-driver Kuldar Sikk. Tanak also spent time in a snow bank on the second day and retired with an electrical issue mid-way through the last day.
“Sweden marked only his third outing with the [Ford] Fiesta RS WRC on the world stage,” said Wilson. “To set two fastest stage times in the process is no mean feat.”
Despite his first-day excursion, the 24-year-old Estonian bounced back and set his maiden WRC stage wins at the wheel of his Ford Fiesta RS WRC the following day.
“There is no doubt that Ott’s pace was there and we need to remember that he is still learning. We have all been impressed with his speed and maturity and I have no doubt that he’ll continue to develop into one of the WRC’s most competitive drivers,” added Wilson.
Despite his disappointment, Tanak spoke positively about his outing in Sweden: “We made a mistake on the first day so after that it was just about getting more experience in the car and trying some new things.”
“Sweden was my first time in the WRC being first on the road so it was all good experience for the future. I’m looking forward to Mexico now!”