How did you feel on the podium last year finishing second, your best result ?
It was my fourth Dakar and long-awaited result. We were close to the first place in the category last year as well. Nevertheless, “silver” of Dakar was a big happiness for all our crew and incredible feelings.
How did you prepare during the year for this 2018 Dakar ?
In order to comply with new regulations of Dakar we built a truck with 13-liter in-line 6-cylinder engine. The whole year went in the framework of preparation and test of the new truck. It was our crew that was responsible for that work. Starting from assembly and finishing with tests duringcompetitions.
What is your objective ?
Our target is to drive the race on a new truck. This test program is important to go without failure and if we are lucky – with a good result at the finish. I am sure that it will be very interesting though it is not clear how the new engine will perform in conditions of Bolivian highlands. But we will hope for the best and work for result.
This is the 4Oth édition, what does it mean for you ?
Veterans of our team say that every anniversary Dakar is always special. They are always challenging. I think that the fortieth edition will be of this kind. Anyway, Peru with its sands already brings diversity to the race program. However, not only landscapes are interesting for me. People, cultures and history are an integral part of Dakar. All that together with sports is why participants and fans love the race.
