Best is yet to come as Tidemand makes international return in ERC

Tidemand hadn’t competed at international level since finishing runner-up in WRC2 on ACI Rally Monza in November 2020.

But the former Junior WRC and WRC2 champion was quickly into his stride with the fifth fastest on the first full length stage of Rally Serras de Fafe, Felgueiras, Boticas, Vieira do Minho e Cabeceiras de Basto.

However, when “small issues” struck shortly afterwards, the Swede briefly dropped out of the points-paying positions before fighting back to 13th place at the finish alongside co-driver Julia Thulin.

“It was quite a challenge and I didn’t feel we always had the rhythm, but when we found the rhythm it was better,” said the 32-year-old, who was driving a GN Motorsport-prepared Ford Fiesta Rally2 run under the MRF Tyres Dealer Team banner. “We had some small issues on the first day but things were fixed [for day two] and it was nice to be back competing.

“With the conditions and everything else it was a tough week but it was a good experience and good for me, Julia and the team to get some points. The experience is what we’re taking with us. We’ll recharge and come back stronger next time.”

Rally Islas Canarias hosts round two of the 2023 ERC season from 4 – 6 May.