"In Corsica, we will drive at a good pace from the start, with no pressure, and then we will see where we stand compared with our rivals. The aim is to come away with ten points. Given the competitiveness of our C2 Super 1600 in Catalunya, I feel optimistic for Corsica," said the Brit.
"This year's car is more competitive than last year's, that's for sure. There's nothing revolutionary technically, just a lot of little things that add up to make a real difference. The engineers in charge of its development at
Citroen Sport have done a fantastic job and my car today is really ideal to drive."
Other possible front runners include Meeke's C2 team-mate, Brice Tirabassi as well as
Suzuki Swift duo,
Urmo Aava and Pavel Valousek. The Renault Clio’s could also figure, as shown by Bernd Casier’s second place finish in Spain.
Aaron Burkart meanwhile will be back in action in his OMV backed C2, despite the tragic accident in Spain, which claimed the life of his co-driver, Jorg Bastuck. Britain’s Barry Clark will also return to the fold, after withdrawing following his part in the accident.
"It's been a hard for everyone concerned after what happened in Spain with what was a terrible freak accident," said Clark. "I am now concentrating on my rallying. Corsica will present a real challenge."
Other significant entries:
Around 79 crews have entered the Rallye de France. Amongst the other significant runners Kronos Racing will again enter an additional car for Junior World Rally champion
Daniel Sordo (Citroen Xsara WRC), while other entrants at the wheel of a WRC car include:
Francois Duval (First Skoda Fabia WRC), Alex Bengue (Peugeot 307 WRC), Jan Kopecky (Czech RT Skoda Fabia WRC) and
Gigi Galli (Peugeot 307 WRC).
Toni Gardmeister was due to take part, although his participation now looks unlikely.
Schedule:
The itinerary is virtually identical to 2005, with each leg comprising a morning loop of two stages which is repeated in the afternoon following service in the port area of Ajaccio.
