Francisco López continues in third place at Tunisian Rally

SANTIAGO.- Francisco López finished in fifth place in the eighth leg of the Tunisian Rally and has maintained his position in the third slot of the overall ranking, continuing ahead of Spanish driver Jordi Viladoms (4th) and Norwegian racer Pal Anders Ullevalseter (5th).

It was not easy, however, for the Chilean driver to defend his momentary presence at the podium in Africa, since Ullevalseter came in just behind the winner of the day, French national Cyril Despre, and Vildoms was right on his heels - just two minutes behind.

"The first part of the special was going into Tunisia against some 100 kilometers of very rocky hills. We went up and down them all, but in the more technical parts I am more comfortable because of my experience with the terrain, so I was right next to Despres", Francisco López stated from Ouani.

According to López, it was during the second portion of the leg that the distance between him and Despres began to grow wider.

"We came down and were back in the Sahara sand, which is their strong point because they have trained here. I lost control a bit and Coma, Ullevalseter and the French guy (Olivier) Pain made their way in (…)  Overall I think it was a good day, I was consistent and I have stayed in third place", he stated.

López contended that he does feel tired at this point in the rally, but assured that he continues completely intact physically and is very enthusiastic about the three remaining days in the competition.