Ex-Formula 1 driver Alex Caffi was delighted to get through the first two stages of the Monte Carlo Rally in 16th place overall, as he made a promising start to his first Intercontinental Rally Challenge appearance.
The Italian, who started 56 grands prix with the Osella, Scuderia Italia and Footwork teams between 1986 and 1991, and now races in sports cars, is driving an S2000 Peugeot 207 on the IRC opener.
"It's fantastic. I'm like a baby with a new toy," Caffi said. "I'm not looking at the classification, I don't care about that. I'm driving my car and enjoying myself."
He has also been impressed by the resilience of the 207.
"The car is incredible," said Caffi. "I have hit some stones and I was very scared because for me normally this would destroy the car."
Although this morning's dry stages have made the transition easier for Caffi than the Monte's usual ice and snow, he is hoping to experience some more extreme weather before the event is over.
"I want some snow because I want to feel a real Monte," he said, "but at the same time I want to be safe in Monaco on Friday."