Skoda maintains makes’ title lead

Skoda continues to head the race for the Intercontinental Rally Challenge manufacturers’ title following the recent Tour de Corse-E.Leclerc, despite Thierry Neuville taking victory for the rival Peugeot marque.

The Czech manufacturer heads Peugeot by two points courtesy of the second and third places finishes achieved in Corsica by Jan Kopecky and Freddy Loix respectively.

Skoda Motorsport boss Michal Hrabanek said: “It was a great rally, extremely difficult in terms of logistics but thrilling until the last kilometre. Our second and third places are certainly a good contribution towards the overall championship result. Freddy Loix fought his way up to the top of IRC drivers’ standings, which motivates us to carry on working hard.

“The IRC is still a thrilling spectacle, with fierce battles for every second. Now we are going to prepare for Prime Yalta Rally. Taking place in the Ukraine, this rally will certainly be a big motivation for all the drivers.”

Skoda plans to reveal its Yalta Rally line-up shortly. The event takes place from 2-4 June.