Junior WRC leader Mille Johansson ready for round two – Rally de Portugal

20-year-old Mille Johansson from Katrineholm and co-driver Johan Grönvall from Arvika lead the Junior World Rally Championship following the season opener at Rally Sweden in February. Now it is time for the next round as the championship heads to gravel for the first time this season at Rally de Portugal.

– I have to say, the feeling is good heading into Portugal. We had a strong start to the championship in Umeå, where we showed our pace, and I feel that we can carry that momentum into the second round, says Mille Johansson.

At the season opener in Umeå, Mille and Johan finished second but claimed the most stage wins – each of which is rewarded with an additional championship point in Junior WRC. As a result, they arrive in Portugal as championship leaders.

Following several successful events during the spring in the more powerful Rally2 machinery, competing in both the FIA European Rally Championship and the Italian Gravel Rally Championship, the pair are now back in a Rally3 car. All Junior WRC crews compete in identical four-wheel-drive Ford Fiesta Rally3 cars prepared by M-Sport Poland.

Ahead of the rally, Mille and Johan have tested in Portugal and prepared thoroughly for the challenge ahead.

– We have tried everything we can with the setup, as there are limits to the changes we are allowed to make. I feel that we have the car pretty much where I want it, and the feeling was really good. We have also spent two days on recce now, and I feel that the pacenotes are working really well. We are well prepared for the rally, Mille continues.

Rally de Portugal is renowned for its demanding nature, with rough rocks and deep ruts presenting a particular challenge for the Junior WRC crews, who run towards the back of the field.

– It is going to be a tough rally. You need to maintain a high pace, but at the same time leave that final percentage in reserve to be able to avoid the rocks. We are aiming for the win and to extend our championship lead, says Mille.

– Of course, it feels good to be leading, but there is still a long way to go this season, so we need to stay just as focused as always, says Johan Grönvall, and continues:

– You really need to stay focused here in Portugal. Sometimes it is better to take it a little easier on certain stages and lose some time rather than push too hard and risk damaging the car. I don’t think this weekend will simply be about being the fastest – strategy and preparation are going to play a major role as well, Johan concludes.

Rally de Portugal consists of 24 special stages, with shakedown and a spectator stage taking place on Thursday. Ten stages will be contested on Friday, seven on Saturday and six on Sunday. A total of twelve Junior WRC crews are entered for the event.