The fan in me wants Meeke to fight - Capito

He is used to seeing his cars win, but Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito says he can't resist the prospect of a little competition on the 2016 Rally Monte Carlo as Citroen's Kris Meeke takes the fight to Sebastien Ogier.

Since VW's WRC debut in 2013, the manufacturer has won 34 of the ensuing 39 events, but while three-time champion Ogier has once more stamped his mark on the curtain raising Monte, he is nonetheless under pressure from Abu Dhabi Citroen's Meeke following the second leg.

With Ogier holding a slender 9.5secs lead after eight stages, Capito says he is pleased to see his car up front again, but admits the 'rally fan' in him is enjoying seeing him challenged by the in-form Briton.

"The Rally Monte Carlo has started well for us. You cannot ask for more than first, third and fourth in such difficult conditions. However it was not only a real treat for me as Motorsport Director, but also as a rally fan.

"The battle between S?bastien Ogier in the Polo R WRC and Kris Meeke in the Citro?n is extremely exciting. Both are producing a hugely impressive performance. Respect to them for that. And the Motorsport Director and rally fan in me both say: more of the same, please!"