20-year-old Mille Johansson from Katrineholm and co-driver Johan Grönvall from Arvika head into round two of the Junior WRC as championship leaders following their strong start at Rally Sweden. The next challenge awaits this week in the form of the gravel classic Rally de Portugal, starting on Thursday.
– “I feel pretty good heading into Portugal. We had a strong start to the championship in Umeå where we showed good pace, and I think we can carry that momentum into round two,” says Mille Johansson.
In Sweden, Mille and Johan finished second overall but claimed the most stage wins – which award bonus points in Junior WRC. That performance put them at the top of the standings.
After a spring campaign in a more powerful Rally2 car – competing in the European Championship and the Italian Gravel Championship – the duo now returns to the Rally3 category. All Junior WRC crews compete in identical four-wheel-drive Ford Fiesta Rally3 cars, run by M-Sport Poland.
The team has tested in Portugal ahead of the rally and feels well prepared.
– “We’ve tested everything possible within the limited setup options allowed, and I feel we’ve got the car pretty much where I want it. The recce went well over two days and I think our pace notes are in a good place. We’re well prepared for the event,” Mille continues.
Rally de Portugal is known for its demanding conditions, with deep ruts and sharp rocks – especially for Junior WRC, which runs last on the road.
– “It’s going to be a tough rally. We need a strong pace but without pushing that final percent – to avoid the rocks. We’re going for the win and to extend our championship lead,” says Mille.
– “Of course it feels good, but there’s still a long season ahead, so we need to keep the same focus as always,” says Johan Grönvall.
– “The test went well. It feels like we’ve found a setup that can help us fight for the top of the podium.”
– “Focus is key – and sometimes it’s better to back off a bit and lose a few seconds rather than pushing too hard and risking damage. I don’t think this weekend is just about raw speed – strategy and preparation will be just as important,” Johan concludes.
Rally de Portugal features 24 special stages, starting with shakedown and a super special on Thursday. Ten stages follow on Friday, seven on Saturday, and six on Sunday. A total of twelve Junior WRC crews are entered for the event.