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Ogier: "I achieved my main target"

Despite missing out on first or second position at Vodafone Rally de Portugal last weekend, Sébastien Ogier left the event satisfied that he had hit his personal target for the rally.

As he bids for a fourth consecutive world title, Ogier's points haul for third in Portugal extended his lead in the drivers' standings from 44 to 47 points. Which, as far as Ogier is concerned, is mission accomplished.

First out on the first two legs, the Volkswagen driver had to deal with complex road conditions which left him battling for second with his team-mate Andreas Mikkelsen.

On Sunday, when the time came for the final sprint to the finish in better conditions, two slow punctures blunted the Frenchman's attack and he could not close the gap. Fastest time in the Power Stage was some consolation and netted him three bonus points.

Ogier admitted it had been a "difficult weekend" but that he still considered it a positive outcome.

"It is always my main target when I start a rally - try to beat second in the championship and increase the gap. We have done it again and we have almost a two-win advantage. So for the points, it's a great operation and I am happy with that." he said.

"I have the feeling that I gave everything I could this weekend and achieved the maximum I could achieve."

Ogier revealed that he has the same objective for the forthcoming Rally Italia Sardegna where, as championship leader, he will start first on the road.

"I know it is going to be a tough one, once again. But I hope I will be at least a little bit more lucky than this weekend," he said. "Once again, I think it will be too optimistic to speak about victory but I will try again to score good points and try to make this plan working again, to beat the second guy in the championship."

Zdroj: wrc.com