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Kubica tames the Welsh forests

RK M-Sport World Rally Team's Robert Kubica made a steady start to the FIA World Rally Championship's final round. Wales Rally GB is renowned as one of the series' most difficult fixtures and the Pole made the most of the experience - gradually taming the Welsh forests and gaining vital knowledge of some of the championship's most difficult stages.

Rain, fog and mud made for a challenging first day of competition, but Robert took the daunting task in his stride. With little experience of the Welsh speed tests, the Pole adopted a risk-free strategy which played to his advantage.

Where others faltered, the Formula One race winner found his own rhythm and improved his pace as the day progressed. Gaining knowledge with each new kilometre, the Pole is keen to continue his development. There are few events in which a driver has the opportunity to discover such unique conditions and Robert is determined to make the most of it.

Robert Kubica (11th) said:

"It has been a difficult and long day with a lot of work to do on the road sections as well as the stages. The conditions on the stages themselves have been very difficult. This is a unique rally with unique conditions but I think that we are driving much better than we did last year. Tomorrow is another day when I hope that we will discover more new things and enjoy."

Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said:

"Robert [Kubica] has adopted a very sensible approach today. Considering his lack of experience in these difficult conditions he has done a good job and made it through all of the stages relatively unscathed. Tomorrow, I hope that he can build on everything he has learnt today and continue to make progress."