Crash.net:
How are you going to approach Sardinia, Greece and Turkey, the three events before the summer break?
MH:
It is definitely going to be flat-out on all of those rallies. Thinking about the championship it would be really nice to go into the summer break in the lead. I will try and win all of them and if I can win one or two and stay close to Sebastien that would be fantastic.
Crash.net:
Do you like Sardinia, because of course you were second last year there - and in 2006 too?
MH:
It is a very nice rally and I have been there every year the rally has been in Sardinia. I know the roads quite well and there is something about it that I like. The stages are nice. It is not that rough and so you don’t need to be too worried about your car or anything. I am really looking forward to it.
Crash.net:
Will the event in Sardinia and the two in Greece and Turkey suit you and the Focus?
MH:
Yes I am sure. Our team is going to be very strong there. Personally for me I have always struggled a little bit to find the maximum speed on those rallies. I have always felt more at home on the faster rallies. But those events are very important and I really need to get some good results and then the rest of the season will be easier for me.
Crash.net:
All three of the events coming up feature quite rough and rocky roads. Are you worried about punctures, especially now there are no anti-deflation devices?
MH:
For sure we will need to be a little bit cautious, even though the tyre has proven to be very strong. But then again it starts to be a problem for the rims and other parts of the car now. You need to be a bit careful, but the tyre is strong and I am not so worried about it.
Crash.net:
What developments does the team have coming up to try and help you and Jari in the battle with Citroen?
MH:
There are no big changes coming. But we are always looking to find the best compromise with the car. It is just about trying different things and going backwards and forwards with diffs and suspension and trying to find the best balance. Not any new parts, but just trying to find a good set-up really.
Crash.net:
In terms of rivals for the championship title,
Sebastien Loeb is obviously you main one, but is
Chris Atkinson a concern too? Is he the 'dark horse'?
