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This is the first season with the re-launched Skoda works team. Schwarz says: “I've never worked so hard in all my life before.“ The brand-new Octavia WRC, with its sophisticated electronic, hydraulic and mechanical systems, requires intensive work. The network of technology partners has to be woven and coordinated.
The team contests seven WRC rounds. After a poor start at Monte Carlo the new squad gets into the swing of things. At the Acropolis Rally the first WRC points are secured, both Octavia WRC cars finish. In Spain Armin spurs the huge Octavia over the asphalt and into the top ten - until an alternator stops his charge. A wonderful memory remains from the Drei-Städte-Rally where, after a fiercely-fought duel, Schwarz finishes second just three seconds behind the winner. Fourth at the Mänttä-Rally in Finland is promising, particularly considering the home-advantage of the local specialist.
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