The former actually got to lead the overall classification on Day 1, but a series of punctures and a problem with his Ford's steering forced him out of the event. Hirvonen, on the other hand, tried to keep the pace with both Sebastien Loeb and Dani Sordo, but eventually had to settle for a certain 3rd place in the end. Considering this wasn't his favorite surface – asphalt – the Finnish driver was not so bumped by the result.
Another reason why Rally Ireland was not such a bad stop for Ford after all was 3rd driver Khalid Al Qassimi scoring his first ever point in the series. The result helped Ford works team stay in 2nd place overall, holding the same number of points as satellite team Stobart Ford. The two teams have 8 points each, 10 less than championship leaders Citroen Total.
“Both drivers claimed fastest times on their least favourite surface and both have gained in experience and know-how in very difficult conditions. I'm pleased Jari-Matti fought back from his first day problems and delighted also for Khalid,” said team boss Malcolm Wilson after the Irish event.
Ford of Europe motorsport director Mark Deans also admitted that the focus for Rally Ireland was not to win the event – although that would have been a great result indeed – but to score points. As far as Ford is concerned, Rally Norway is the place where the championship will really get under way.
“This rally was all about maximising manufacturer points in an event which was less likely to favour our drivers. As we look ahead to the next round in Norway, I'm confident we can reverse that situation. To have five Focus RS WRCs finishing in the top 10 is a testament to its speed, strength and reliability,” revealed Deans.
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