Khalifa, you have returned to the Middle East Rally Championship, but this time it’s in an RRC car. This is the first time you drive an RRC car and you finished on the podium. How do you feel and what do you think of the rally after what is probably one of your best finishes?
Thank God we were able to finish in third place. I’ve finished in third and second places several times in the Middle East Rally Championship, but this is the first time I do it in an RRC car. Nasser helped me in many areas, including the car’s setup, because he knows the car well as it was his. Yesterday, we had an issue with the crossmember, it was weak. Hopefully, we can fix those issues in upcoming rallies where Nasser will be lending us a hand. I am happy with my third place after all the problems. Upcoming rallies will be better for me, hopefully.
We know that the Group N car that you’re used to is very different from the RRC car, especially when it comes to braking, lining and positioning around corners. How was the difference and how did you adapt from start to finish?
The difference is very big. I used to brake earlier in the Group N when negotiating a hairpin, but Nasser told me to brake later and the car would make it into the turn. I was getting better and better after every stage.
You benefited from Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and Yazeed Al Rajhi’s retirements; they were both quicker. Today, you have 15 points in the championship. What are your preparations for the Kuwait International Rally in order to build on today’s points?
There will be preparations with Nasser, and I will work on my fitness and try to prepare myself properly. I might take part in several WRC2 rounds, and this season will hopefully be a preparation for the next season.
You’re contesting a full season in the Middle East Rally Championship, all 8 rounds, with Nasser’s team?
Yes, I will be contesting a full season in Nasser’s team. We have the best team.
Nasser is a world champion and he has a rich history of participations, whereas your participations are intermittent. When will we see you in more frequent participations, and when will you prove that you’re as good as Nasser?
Thank God, I was able to receive the support, and hopefully I can be Nasser’s successor in case he decides to stop. We will try to take away stage wins from Nasser; taking away victories from a world champion is something big.
Best of luck Khalifa, we hope to see you in improved shape at the Kuwait International Rally.
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