Stobart driver Henning Solberg says his early pace on Rally Bulgaria has vindicated his decision to switch to the Ford Fiesta S2000 for the asphalt rounds of the World Rally Championship.
Solberg leads Group N on his debut in the Fiesta, despite only testing for 30 miles ahead of the Borovets-based event. The Norwegian driver ended the opening loop 11th overall and hoping to make the top 10 through the afternoon.
"People say, 'Henning, he can't drive on tarmac,' but I know that's not true," he said. "Let me tell you, there are not many people around here who could beat me in a go-kart. I know I can drive on asphalt, but I just couldn't do it in that car [the Focus RS WRC]. I don't know why, but I just didn't understand the car; it was something to do with the camber. I don't know, it just didn't work. But this one certainly does. I love it. It's just like driving a go-kart. It's a fantastic tarmac car."
Solberg added that his early running in the Fiesta chassis bodes well for next season.
"I want to be back in the Fiesta World Rally Car next year," he said. "From what I've seen so of this car so far, it will be a great year."