Morocco Rally: The Frenchman surprised Sonik

Status quo maintained in Morocco. Rafał Sonik remained the leader of OiLibya Rally in the quad category, even though Sebastien Souday turned out to be slightly faster than him. ‘He surprised me completely, because I didn’t realize he started the rally today,’ commented Orlen Team captain with a smile.

The French quad rider, who was quite a demanding rival during the Sardegna Rally over the past two years, he was out of luck in Morocco. On the first day, he didn’t complete the special stage due to equipment failure, on the second day, he didn’t start at all. However, he decided to accept the huge penalty and stand and fight far behind the leader.
‘I didn’t know that Sebastien Souday is still in the rally. Even if I did, I wouldn’t change my tactics. He is not a threat to me. Racing with him for the win would only increase the risk, and I can’t afford it before Dakar,’ explained Rafał Sonik.

At a sandy loop around Zagora, navigation was quite a challenge, particularly as some points were unclear. ‘My roadbook showed me a turnout that wasn’t there as I was on a straight rocky road. I thought I exited the wadi incorrectly, but the next characteristic point told me that I’m driving in the right direction. I lost a couple of minutes there, but it didn’t matter too much,’ commented Sonik.

‘During Dakar, I usually drive at the speed near the fourth ten of bikers. Here, despite the fact that the best of the best are here, I’m currently 26th. I hope this is bodes well for Dakar…’ added Sonik happily.

PKN ORLEN supports Rafał Sonik’s participation in the rally.

Results of the third stage:
1. Sebastien Souday (FRA) 04:03.37
2. Rafał Sonik (POL) + 2.30
3. Aleksandr Maksimov (RUS) + 01:57.45
General classification:
1. Rafał Sonik (POL) 12:10.43
2. Eduardo Marcos Echaniz (ESP) + 06:47.07
3. Cavadonga Fernandez Suarez (ESP) 07:06.59