P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Neuville reveals “MacGyver” style WRC Safari Rally car repair
Belgian driver Thierry Neuville, the current WRC points leader, encountered a right-rear puncture during stage three after hitting loose rocks beside the road, ultimately leading to a deflated tyre near the finish line. Despite losing 19.9 seconds, Neuville’s i20 N Rally1 suffered bodywork damage due to the shredded tyre. Neuville and co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe improvised a makeshift repair using a tree branch and cloth to combat dust inside the car before embarking on the final stage with goggles for protection. Despite finishing sixth overall, 48.0 seconds behind rally leader Kalle Rovanpera, Neuville remained optimistic and focused, acknowledging the challenges faced and expressing a desire for smoother stages ahead. Meanwhile, title rival Elfyn Evans also endured difficulties with understeer and a slow puncture in the morning stages but aimed to fine-tune his performance during midday service for better results in the subsequent stages.
