Bouffier: I am lucky to be first!

Bryan Bouffier currently leads Rallye Monte-Carlo behind the wheel of an M-Sport run Ford Fiesta RS WRC. The Frenchmen was another driver to benefit from the optimum tyre choice through the first pass of ‘Monteauban sur l’Ouveze – Laborel’ (SS3). Cladding their Fiesta with a cross configuration of Michelin’s supersoft Pilot Sport and non-studded Pilot Alpin tyres, Bouffier and co-driver Xavier Panseri claimed the lead through SS3’s treacherous offerings and held position for the reminder of the day. With five stages to run en-route to Monaco tomorrow, the former ‘Monte’ winner goes into Day 2 with a 38.8 second lead.

Bryan Bouffier (1st) said:

“It is fantastic for me to be here – competing with the world’s best and in a really good position at the end of the first day. The conditions have been really difficult, so to come out on top – here at Monte-Carlo – it’s a very good feeling. Although I have to say that I am lucky to be here! On the first corner of the first stage we hit a bridge and I thought that our race was over. Thankfully, the Fiesta is very strong, so thanks to her!

“Of course this will not be an easy position to hold on to as we know that anything can happen. We need to keep concentrated and be aware of the conditions. We’ll just try to keep the same pace, and see what happens tomorrow.”

Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said:

“Bryan [Bouffier] has done a great job today and we are obviously very happy to see one of our privateer drivers leading the rally. He has used all of his past ‘Monte’ experience to great effect – a really mature drive with some excellent tyre selections. It will be difficult to hold onto the lead, but anything can happen and he is in a fantastic position going forward.”