Strong start for ŠKODA Deutschland aces

ŠKODA Auto Deutschland drivers Mark Wallenwein and Matthias Kahle will start the final day of Barum Czech Rally Zlín in the thick of the battle for the top 20.

Wallenwein is contesting his second Intercontinental Rally Challenge event of the season while Kahle, a seven-time German champion, is making his debut in the Eurosport-backed competition.

“The second half of the first day was better than the first and the times were there in some places,” said Wallenwein, who starts day two in 21st position on his debut on the demanding Czech rally. “The chassis was a little nervous, especially on the bumps but we have changed something to the settings. In my opinion today’s stages are a little easier to drive.”

Fellow Zlín rookie Kahle, who is in 22nd position 13.7s behind his team-mate, said: “I’ve felt comfortable in the car and tried to modify my driving to be faster. The car ran perfectly but we have to make the shock absorbers harder for today.”