Mixed emotions for Klinger on Zlin comeback

Leading co-driver Nicolas Klinger has spoken of a love/hate relationship with Barum Czech Rally Zlín, round nine of the all-action Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

Klinger, from France, navigated countryman Nicolas Vouilloz to first place on the rally in 2007. They were leading in 2008 with two stages remaining when a transmission glitch dropped them to second. In 2009 they were in contention for a podium finish when their car, a Peugeot 207 Super 2000, caught fire at a stage end.

The 36-year-old Klinger is back in action this year co-driving IRC Production Cup and IRC 2WD Cup contender Robert Consani in a Renault Mégane RS and is braced for a tough two days of competition.

“This is a difficult rally and just to find the feeling depends on where you find the bumpy parts,” said Klinger. “It’s not easy in a two-wheel-drive car on the bumpy sections because the back of the car will move and it’s easy to have moments. And then when it rains traction is a big problem as well. We just want to get to the finish.”