Showing a steady improvement stage-on-stage, the Venezuelan was continually surprised by the challenges thrown up by the German Tarmac, but tried to adapt as quickly as possible: ”It was especially difficult this morning when it was wet in places and the roads were slippery, but I tried to maintain a sensible approach. I don’t have any real asphalt experience, so I made a few small mistakes, but overall I was very happy to hold second in the Production Cup and give myself a better margin over third.”

The mixed conditions and tight hairpins provided a unique test, but Fessman followed his strategy of driving safely through the stages focused on getting to the end of the rally. Tomorrow will present a brand new challenge as the ex-professional basketball player takes on the legendary 41km Panzerplatte stage. He can’t wait to do the iconic test and represent Venezuela in front of the German crowds: ”It’s the first time a Venezuelan driver has ever competed in ADAC Rallye Deutschland and Panzerplatte is a very popular stage with spectators. I can’t wait to take my Mitsubishi out on the stage in its Venezuelan colours and fly the flag for my nation. I really want to make Venezuela and its Ministry of Sport proud.”

Team Manager Bruno De Pianto continues to be impressed by Fessman’s progress and hopes tomorrow is another good day: ”Carlos has completed all eight stages so far unperturbed. This is quite impressive for a driver in conditions he’s never met before and with such little Tarmac experience. From the first moment, he said he had a good feeling on the asphalt stages and I think this bodes well for the future and the Tarmac rounds later in the season. I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”