Martin targets Greece repeat

While the exclusion of Peugeot's Marcus Gronholm from the Cyprus Rally elevated Martin in the points standings - the Estonian is now lying in second place on 34 points, one adrift of Citroen's Sebastien Loeb - Martin will be the second driver out this weekend and will face the unflattened and consequently slower gravel.

"Last year was special, but it makes no difference to this year's event. What has made a difference is this week's changes to the result of Cyprus," he said "Marcus Gronholm's exclusion means I will now be second in the start order on the opening day. That will be difficult, because we can expect loose and slippery gravel on the road surface during the first pass of stages, while those behind us will enjoy cleaner and faster conditions.

"It's a hard rally, especially on tyres. The speeds are higher than in Cyprus. That means the pressure on the tyres is higher, which creates more heat and wear. Cooler temperatures would be a big help."

Martin is also concerned that the new remote tyre and fuel service zones, introduced for Acropolis, will prevent the repair of some elements of the car for only spare parts carried in the car are allowed to be fitted in these zones.

"We'll have to be more careful on this section not to take so many risks because damage to the car may not always be repairable by just ourselves and two mechanics, especially without the necessary spare parts," said Martin. "The less service we have, the more careful we must be."