David Lapworth
David Lapworth
champion chris help objective reach
Our objective is to find another Subaru world champion and we'll do all that we can to help Chris and Stephane reach that goal.
cards case certainly event expense eye far good looking pleased points sacrifice shot start starting suit testing weather win winning
The testing we've done on asphalt so far has been good and we're pleased with the starting ground. Petter certainly has a shot at winning every rally, but our eye will always be on the championship. We start each event looking to win, but we won't sacrifice points at the expense of the title. If a win is on the cards in Monte Carlo we will go for it, but if the weather doesn't suit us we'll strategically go for points - this isn't a case of Monte Carlo or bust!
blocked components conditions exclusive full hardest ice low match problem rally seals snow sure sweden takes winter work year
In many respects, the hardest part is preparation. This is the only rally of the year that takes place in full snow conditions with winter temperatures to match and there is a lot of work that's exclusive to just this event, for instance, making sure that components and seals work in the low temperatures and don't ice up. Bizarrely enough, overheating is a big problem in Sweden as the radiator can become blocked with snow.
belts clear greater led needed rear stronger support
It was clear we needed to make everything much stronger and stiffer. Which led us to the shorter belts and greater rear support for the seat.
achievement chris fantastic finish major six top
Chris has had a fantastic weekend. To finish in the top six on his first Monte Carlo is a major achievement and he's done it at a very respectable pace.
chances coming drive experience gaining great ireland needs objectives practice problem stages sunny wet
Gaining more experience on asphalt is one of Chris's development objectives this year. The challenging stages in Ireland will be great practice for him. He needs all the asphalt experience he can get but, in particular, coming from sunny Australia, he hasn't had many chances to drive in the wet - that shouldn't be a problem in Ireland!
attack beginning blind car commitment corners drivers extremely finland handling ideal lots needs pace precise reactions rides room sharp soft sports stage suspension travel vehicle wheel
There is no room for half-hearted commitment - drivers have to attack from the beginning to the end of every stage and have extremely precise pace notes. A lot of the corners are blind and most are very fast. I've said this before, but the ideal for Finland is a vehicle that handles like a sports car and rides like a limousine. The car needs to be agile, with sharp reactions and precise handling but, on the other hand, it needs soft suspension and lots of wheel travel to get grip.
both building experience focused good last learning looking solid steep team time year
This will probably be the last time we say he has a steep learning curve. He's now got experience of all the rallies and his year will be focused on building on 2005's solid foundations. Both he and the team will be looking for good finishes.