Argentina lessons vital for Oliveira in Greece

Daniel Oliveira plans to make the most of the experience he gained on Philips Rally Argentina last month when he makes his second appearance on the Acropolis Rally.

The Brazil World Rally Team driver reckons the arduous nature of the South American round will be similar to the tough test he and his rivals in the FIA World Rally Championship powered by Nokia will face in Greece from this Thursday until Sunday.

“It’s a very tough rally which reminds me of Argentina’s round because of the way in which you have to handle your pace,” said the 26-year-old. “Surprises are often expected and you have to be fully concentrated so as not to make mistakes. Arriving from such an extensive rally like Argentina will help a lot. It was an excellent event and Greece won’t be different. The issue will be to find a pace, which will enable us to be fast enough without damaging the car. Luck will also be decisive.”

Manfred Stohl, whose Stohl Racing operation runs Oliveira’s Ford Fiesta RS WRC, said the objective for his young charge was clear.

“He has to learn and to take care of the car because the roads can be very rough,” said Stohl. “The target is clear, the need for Daniel to be at the finish is absolute whatever the position. I am confident he can do this and also show his potential.”