Andreas Mikkelsen delivered a measured drive in changeable conditions to open up a slender 8.9sec lead in the WRC2 category on Thursday at Rallye Monte-Carlo. The Norwegian, who has pledged to win every rally this year, drew first blood when he posted a superb time in the opening Saint-Disdier – Corps stage to go fastest by 10.1sec. A steadier approach to the second and final stage of the day reduced his advantage to 8.9sec, but the Skoda Fabia Rally2 man was happy with his performance. On the second stage, we decided not to use the snow tyres we had in the back, but the conditions were very difficult.

Follow MotorMouth on social media:

• 
• 
• 
•