Madeira rookie Oliveira plans to up pace

Daniel Oliveira says he is planning to up his pace on the final day of Rali Vinho Madeira after a controlled drive secured 19th overall on the Intercontinental Rally Challenge event.

The Brazilian is tackling a pure asphalt rally for only the third time in his career. Apart from a spin on Friday’s opening stage, little has troubled the Stohl Racing driver.

“It was important to finish on Friday,” said the Peugeot 207 exponent. “We now look to improve the pace but this is not an easy rally and experience is very important.”

Oliveira’s team boss Manfred Stohl added: “He has been consistent, has a good feeling and the co-driver [Carlos del Barrio] also feels comfortable. It is the correct way and we are happy. His stage times are also improving.”