Qualifying usually plays a crucial role in gravel events. Depending on the sweeping conditions, it’s best not to be among the frontrunners. On tarmac, the scenarios vary. If the road surface isn’t likely to get dirty with successive passes, the starting order isn’t decisive. Conversely, if the track gets increasingly dirty with each passing car, it’s imperative to start in front.
Previous editions of Croatia in WRC showed that it was more interesting to be among the first on the special stages, as the roads tended to be dirtier after a few cars. Competitors keen to aim for victory this weekend set off with this imperative in mind.
Located a few kilometers northwest of Zagreb, the Hrusevec qualifying stage was 6,12 km long. After free practice, which began at 9:00 a.m., the crews set out to tackle the section, some of whose bends were completely covered in dirt, stones… and anything else stored in the curbs and verges.
Starting in the lead, Mikolaj Marczyk (Fabia RS) immediately confirmed his intentions by setting the fastest time. The 29-year-old Pole put himself in an ideal position to start the first stage on Saturday. Conversely, the other title contender, Andrea Mabellini, missed out. Making a small mistake in the first kilometers of the time trial, the Italian lost precious seconds and, above all, a bit of confidence. Only 8e of the qualification, he will have to deal with a track which is probably not very clean.
Still mathematically in the race for the crown, Jon Armstrong (Fiesta) finished 5the and he will have to work hard if he wants to repeat his victory in Ceredigion. Returning to the competition after missing two rounds, Mads Ostberg (C3) started his collaboration with the Irishman Lorcan Moore well by placing 2nde. Discovering the event, Pablo Sarrazin (C3) took the 12e instead.
After the starting ceremony which will take place this evening, the competitors will attack the first stage tomorrow with 6 SS representing 116,66 km timed.
