Evans Takes Control at Safari Rally Kenya Amidst Rivals’ Struggles

Elfyn Evans leads after exercising caution during the challenging Safari Rally Kenya. He outpaced rivals who encountered spins, penalties, or breakdowns, including Kalle Rovanpera and Ott Tanak. Defending champion Thierry Neuville faced multiple penalties, finishing fourth.

In the recent second day of the Safari Rally Kenya, Elfyn Evans, the championship leader, adopted a cautious approach, ultimately taking the lead as competitors encountered various difficulties. While not securing the fastest times on any of the eight stages, Evans maintained a 7.7-second advantage over his Toyota teammate, Kalle Rovanpera, who faced a significant setback due to a spin.

Ott Tanak, who was leading by 46.1 seconds, slid to third position following mechanical issues that hampered his performance. Defending champion Thierry Neuville finished fourth after accumulating several penalties throughout the day, including a one-minute penalty for tardiness post-gearbox change and additional penalties thereafter.

Evans commented on the arduous day of racing, stating, “It’s been a difficult day and we’ve erred on the side of caution. Obviously some guys have had trouble, which is unfortunate, but it’s part of the Safari.” He reflected on the challenges of balancing risk and pace in such demanding conditions. Rovanpera’s challenges included a spin that cost him precious time, while Tanak’s day turned sour with a driveshaft issue that severely affected his performance.

The day concluded with three of Tanak’s earlier leads dissolved due to his car issues, ultimately losing over a minute on one stage. Neuville’s penalties highlighted the difficulties faced by competitors on this rugged course. Meanwhile, the rally’s Saturday stages encompass a total of 146.50 kilometers, promising further excitement as drivers navigate the challenges of this prestigious event.

The second day of the Safari Rally Kenya proved to be a test of endurance and strategy, with Elfyn Evans capitalizing on his cautious approach to seize the lead. His competitors, including Ott Tanak and Thierry Neuville, faced significant penalties and mechanical failures, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the rally. With upcoming stages promising more challenging conditions, the competition is far from over, setting the stage for an intriguing conclusion to the event.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr