Carlsson feels no pressure
Swedish World Rally Championship privateer Daniel Carlsson has admitted he feels relaxed ahead of this weekend's Wales Rally GB as he steps up to drive the third works Peugeot 307.
Carlsson has been competing in a Bozian Racing Peugeot 206 this year scoring points in Sweden, New Zealand and Greece. It was enough to convince the works team to sign him on a long-term contract that will begin in 2005.
For now, though, the Swede just has this weekend on his mind, where he will join Marcus Gronholm and gravel specialist Harri Rovanpera to contest the Welsh event.
"I already know a number of people from the factory team, but it will be nice to spend Rally GB with the whole squad," he said. "There's no special pressure on me. I've already signed my contract for 2005, so I know this event will not condition the rest of my career. I have a long-term deal, so I will give it my very best and we'll see what sort of result we get."
Carlsson has identified his weakness, though, and feels he needs to improve finishing record. "At the end of the day, I think I can be quick, but I must succeed in being more consistent, in keeping up a pace over the full duration of the rally," he said. "Being a factory driver with Peugeot next year will doubtlessly mean I can spend more time behind the wheel of a WRC car. That's what I need."
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