Adrien Fourmaux has overhauled Elfyn Evans for second place on the Monte Carlo Rally, as Sébastien Ogier continues to steer.
Evans started Saturday’s leg simply 1.6 seconds forward of Hyundai beginner Fourmaux, having led the rally at Friday lunchtime.
The pair set an similar time on Saturday’s opener, however Fourmaux turned the screw on the day’s second check, shifting half a second away from the Welshman after SS11.
Fourmaux was once more faster on SS12 to go again to service in Hole 2.8s forward.
Evans admitted issues have been “extra sophisticated than we anticipated this morning” with stage situations dirtier than he’d anticipated.
Ogier’s rally lead stands at 17.2s; the eight-time champion, who’s chasing a tenth Monte Carlo Rally win, selecting to test his tempo at instances in stage situations that have been deteriorating.
However beating Fourmaux by 5.1s on the morning’s closing stage was an vital marker for Ogier to set.
“I attempt to handle the chance,” Ogier mentioned, “and it’s by no means straightforward on Monte Carlo.”
Kalle Rovanperä stays fourth general, however has Ott Tänak (who gained SS11 by a formidable 6.9s) shut for firm only a second behind. The Hyundai had began the day 8.8 adrift of the Toyota.
