Rough rallies hold no fear for Latvala

Jari-Matti Latvala says he will have nothing to fear when he fights for glory on some of the rougher gravel events of this year’s FIA World Rally Championship powered by Nokia.

The ace Finn joined factory Ford team-mate Petter Solberg for a research and development test at the Fontjoncouse facility in France last week. The venue is a popular off-road test site and is famed for the punishing nature of its roads, which Latvala said were probably the roughest he had ever driven on.

Latvala, the winner of the previous WRC round in Sweden, covered approximately 120 kilometres with Solberg managing 170 kilometres.

“The conditions have been extremely rough, but that has provided us with some very good information regarding the areas we need to focus upon,” said Latvala. “We tried out some development parts on the car, and they have received positive feedback. Overall, I would say the day was useful for all the rough gravel rallies this year.”

Solberg added: “I learned a lot about the Fiesta RS WRC, was able to try it out on another new surface and we now have a good base for the next test before Mexico. The car is fantastic - I’m very happy.”

The Ford World Rally Team is currently testing in the south of Spain in preparation for next week’s Rally Guanajuato Mexico. Latvala finished his running yesterday with Solberg due to test on Wednesday and Thursday.