Mikkelsen input leads to Citroen C3 WRC changes

Two important upgrades have been homologated for the troubled Citroen C3 WRC design.  

These are new rear differential specification and a system designed to modify the torque split between the axles.  

Due to a delay in sourcing the new components, only Mikkelsen’s car will be fitted with these new parts in time for Rally Poland.  

Yves Matton, Citroen Racing’s Team Principal said: “Our season moves into a new phase at Rally Poland.  We needed to take a step back to note that some of the risks we had taken during development of the C3 WRC were not paying off.  

“Our car is unquestionably fast, but the window in which it works efficiently was proving too narrow.  We have therefore begun making some major changes to our organisation, our methods and our principles.

“The first of these was the arrival of Andreas Mikkelsen, who encouraged us to explore some new ideas. After his first proper test session in the C3 WRC, we have introduced some upgrades that supplement the work done over the last few months.

“With a more versatile car, our drivers will be able to aim for the kind of results that match Citroën’s high expectations.”   

Understanding Matton’s comments about ‘changes in organisation’ leads to questions about the future position for Kris Meeke in the team, though his drive on the ensuing WRC event in Finland has been assured.

- Martin Holmes

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