Meeke aims to seal second for Citroen in Rally GB

Citroen has a slender lead of just four points over Hyundai in the battle for the runner-up spot behind Volkswagen heading into the final rally of the 2015 season.

The closeness of the battle makes a good result in Wales for both Meeke and Citroen teammate Mads Ostberg vital, and the Ulsterman says he is aiming for a podium finish to ensure the French marque comes out on top.

“This is more or less my home rally and there’ll be lots of supporters out for us,” said Meeke.

“Having said that, I don’t have as much experience at this event as the drivers who have competed here for the last 10 years.

“The majority of the stages are held on natural roads where the driving is smooth. Inside the car, you sometimes get the feeling you’re fighting the elements and that just makes it even more fun to drive.

“We know what we have to do, we have to finish second in the championship. So we have to try and finish in front of our rivals and, if possible, on the podium.”

During Thursday's shakedown, Meeke was third fastest, just three tenths shy of VW duo Sebastien Ogier and Jari-Matti Latvala, who set identical times.

Home hero Evans targets top five

M-Sport Ford driver Elfyn Evans finished fifth in his first attempt at his home event in a World Rally car last year, and the 26-year-old is aiming to at least match that result this year.

“It’s always nice to end the season at home and Wales Rally GB has a fantastic atmosphere,” said Evans.

“The home crowd really gets behind us and I’m really looking forward to experiencing some of the best stages in the world for the second time with a world rally car.

“We had a good run to fifth place last year and I want to at least equal that this year.

“The competition will be strong with a lot of drivers all gunning for the podium positions, but if everything is perfect then I think we’re more than capable of challenging for a strong result.”