Hanninen: I must focus to win in Zlin

Juho Hänninen says he must be totally focused if he is to win Barum Czech Rally Zlín for the first time this week.

The ŠKODA Motorsport ace has won 10 rounds of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge since his debut in 2008 – more than any other driver – but has yet to triumph on the all-asphalt event in Czech Republic.

“With its narrow forest roads and a lot of jumps, this event is one of the most difficult asphalt rallies in general and therefore requires absolute concentration,” said the Finn, IRC champion in 2010.

Hänninen is the top seed for the event but will face strong opposition from fellow ŠKODA runners Jan Kopecký, Andreas Mikkelsen and Roman Kresta, the multiple Czech champion who has won in Zlín on three occasions.

“I am sure we will see many tough duels, because this is the most competitive event of this season,” added Hänninen.