Dakar: Dirk von Zitzewitz - Volkswagen interview

Three questions to Dirk von Zitzewitz, Mark Miller's co-driver

You've experienced many highs and lows together with your driver Mark Miller during the Dakar Rally. How would you assess your performance up to now?

"The rally isn't over till the chequered flag drops. In Stephane Peterhansel's case on the marathon stage, we saw just how quickly you can lose the lead. Both Mark and I have experienced incredible highs and lows. Everything ran according to plan at the beginning. However, we were frustrated after rolling twice in Mauretania on the second day, and noticed that any chance of a top-three finish was gone. We were also disappointed on the day after the rest-day. We were simply not good enough and slipped out of contention with the leaders. Since then things have been running extremely well again, we are working our way to the front."

How are you getting on in the cockpit with Mark Miller -- you have already driven together in 2002 and 2004 in the Dakar Rally?

"We work perfectly together. Things worked out very well already during the first two events we competed in together; however, we have both learnt a great deal more in many different aspects since then. For example, I'm much calmer now. I have also learnt a huge amount during this Dakar."

The team has changed noticeably since you started alongside Robby Gordon for the Volkswagen team in 2005. How do you judge the development?

"I'm extremely impressed by the team. It really is fantastic to see just how smoothly everything functions. Parts and service are always there where we need them, a huge logistical challenge. The atmosphere is also very good, despite everybody being totally focussed on the job in hand."

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