Peugeot Rally Academy back in full ERC force

After scoring three victories on as many different types of surface, the unique aim of Breen and co-driver Scott Martin is to finish on top after the 230 kilometres of competitive action.

“This will be my third Barum Czech Rally Zlìn,” said Breen. “It’s a tough event – very fast, but narrow and bumpy. In 2014, we were eliminated quite quickly after an off, so this time I don’t want to make any mistakes in order to make sure I score points after our last two disappointing outings. To achieve that, I know I will be able to count on everyone’s help in the team.”

Also sharing a 208 T16 will be the 2014 208 Rally Cup winner Martin who, together with co-driver Thierry Salva, is eager to taste competitive action once again. After his strong ERC debut which bagged fifth place in Ireland, followed by a top 10 finish in the Azores (two events that were new to him), Martin will be counting on the proven competitiveness of the Peugeot 208 T16 on asphalt to target another fine result.

“I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the 208 T16 for this famous event,” said Martin. “I think the experience of the Circuit of Ireland will help us to tackle the Barum Rally’s highly specific stages. I’ve worked hard to prepare for this rally, especially by watching videos. I’m looking for a top-five finish and I will use the pre-rally test organised by the Peugeot Rally Academy to work on the set-up of the 208 T16 which was fast on these roads last year.”

Gago, the 2014 208 Rally Cup champion, will line up for the sixth and final round of the ERC Junior championship in the colours of the Peugeot Rally Academy. After showcasing his speed on all the different types of terrain visited since the start of the season, he and co-driver Jorge Carvahlo will be able to count on the 208 R2 as they try to finish runner-up in the series. The Portuguese pair will be able to count on the experience of the Peugeot Rally Academy, which helped Stéphane Lefebvre to victory on the Barum Rally in 2014.

“More than anything else, I want to end this magnificent programme in the colours of Peugeot Sport on a high note,” said Gago. “My sights are set on a top-five finish which would allow me to move up the championship order.”