Protasov takes positives from Yalta exit

Yuriy Protasov says he can still be positive despite retiring from the battle for victory on his home round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, last week’s Prime Yalta Rally.

The Ukrainian was on top in the Crimea until a puncture followed by an off-road excursion on Sunday’s second stage dropped him out of contention for first place. The M-Sport Ford Fiesta RRC driver then encountered further bad luck when he broke a steering arm and damaged his suspension, forcing the 28-year-old to finally call it a day.

“For sure, I am disappointed to retire but I am still feeling positive,” explained Protasov, who was driving his Fiesta in competition for the first time. “It was our first time in the Fiesta and I have been happy with our times. Yesterday we had a good day but today we were unlucky on three stages in a row. That is life but I learned a lot – I never expected to come here and win so I cannot allow myself to feel disappointed.”

The all-action IRC resumes on the Mabanol Sliven Rally in Bulgaria from 28-30 September.