However, with over 16 factory supported riders also entered to compete in Morocco it’s set to be a competitive week of action. But after a tough summer of training, nothing beats the feeling of going racing once more and racing is what Cyril does best…

“It is always a pleasure to return to the African continent to race in Morocco and now with the strength of the field it makes this year’s rally an even more exciting prospect than before. Honestly, I think it’s hard to remember the last time I lined up for the start of a rally with so many top riders supported by so many different official teams present. Clearly it’s an encouraging indication of the health of our discipline and an even more exciting prospect for both the fans and spectators involved in our sport. With a lot more riders entering rally now than before, it’s easy to see that the battle we’ll face next January will be harder fought than ever.

“I’m not going to make any predictions about the outcome of the rally we are about to start, but I know that a number of the front runners will be looking to show what they are capable of in the run up to the biggest race of the year. However, I don’t plan on falling into that trap of being over anxious to prove myself. I know better.

“Since the Dakar Rally I haven’t made so many competitive outings this year, though I have been training hard and I’m feeling in good form. I feel refreshed in my return to racing and right now I am really looking forward to getting back on the bike again and giving my KTM 450 Rally a really good pre-Dakar test. As always I will keep you informed of my progress over the six days of racing, with daily video clips recorded in the bivouac after each day’s stage. So stay tuned for that!”

Speak to you soon

Cyril #1