HIRVONEN LEADS AFTER SECOND DAY OF MONTE CARLO RALLY
2010-01-22 19:18:51 Author: admin Source:
Four Peugeot 207 S2000s continue to be featured in the top-eight at the end of the 2010 Rallye Monte-Carlo's second day which was won by WRC runner-up Mikko Hirvonen in a time of 3:12' 44".
After figuring in second place following completion of the first stage, Kris Meeke was the first driver to be caught out by one of the infinite number of changes in grip that make the Monte Carlo Rally such a uniquely difficult event.
Peugeot's aspirations for the Rally now rests on the laurels of Sébastien Ogier who went on to claim three of the day's six stages. He was notably quickest both times round the Saint Bonnet le Froid' loop which was completely snowy, and lined by thousands of spectators. The 2009 winner's run enabled him to climb from fifth to third place by the end of the stage.
Team mate Stéphane Sarrazin couldn't share that optimism, however. after picking up a puncture on the first day, The Frenchman dropped more than two minutes on the second stage following an off on the penultimate corner of the 'Saint Bonnet' stage. Despite his setback, the French driver succeeded in moving up one place compared with his overnight slot. He is now fifth, tailed by another Peugeot of Franz Wittmann.
The third day's program sees competitors leave Valence en route to Monaco. On their way, they will contest the celebrated Col de Perty stage, a long-time Monte classic. Then, they will head back into the mountains for two attempts at the Nuit du Turini loop which will settle the fight once and for all.
Results
1.Hirvonen-Lehtinen 3h12mn44s
2.Hanninen-Markkula + 47s7
3.Ogier-Ingrassia + 1mn10s3
4.Vouilloz-Veillas + 1mn34s3
5.Sarrazin-Renucci + 6mn06s
