Belgian could replace Glenn MacneallA short time following the end of Rally Portugal, Chris Atkinson's co-driver Glenn Macneall announced that he wished to retire from the WRC with immediate effect.
With Macneall's decision came a new task for Subaru driver Atkinson
: quickly finding a replacement co-driver for the remainder of the season.
Experienced Frenchman Denis Giraudet was firstly considered, but the offer was declined as Giraudet had other engagements, most notably three more rallies with OMV Kronos Citroën driver Daniel Carlsson.
Subaru then decided to contact Stéphane Prévot, who also has great world rally experience. The 38-year-old Belgian will go through a five-day test programme to be held in Sardinia, which will also serve to find out if things work well between Prévot and Atkinson.
The Subaru driver must feel in full confidence with his eventual new counterpart if he wants to keep moving ahead.
No long-term decision will therefore be made before the five days of testing on gravel.
Prévot has not only the advantage of knowing very well the world rally playgrounds. He is also familiar with the inner functions of the Subaru team as he was Stéphane Sarrazin's co-driver last year for tarmac events.
Stéphane Prévot has worked for six teams and participated in over a hundred WRC rallies. He made the podium twelve times, without ever reaching the topmost step.
Daniel BASTIEN © CAPSIS International
