We were the first to announce his return and again we were the first to interview him.
We talked to Christian about his return to rallying after this long time and the details behind his surprising decision. We met at TG Rally Skills’ garage, his new team, and we had a small conversation about the awaited return.
It is a surprising return for you to rallying, tell us more?
What will I tell you, this is a feeling? As long as it is there and you love to drive, you will always look to drive. As simple as that. We got a good offer from a sponsor and we decided to participate. As people know this sport is very costly now, so sponsoring is very important. We tried before for several time but it didn’t work. This time it did so we are going to participate in the Cedars rally.
In 2006 we heard that you were planning a return, why didn’t it happen?
It was not very accurate back then. We worked on it a little, but it was not very serious. It was all down to sponsor anyway, and it is[singlepic id=605 w=320 h=240 float=right] much more difficult for someone who has been away for so long to get back. Drivers that are regularly participating cannot get sponsors, what will we say on someone who has stopped long time ago.
What are your targets for the Cedars Rally especially that you haven’t driven for a long time?
I just want to drive for myself, for my own pleasure and not for anybody else. With respect to what we do in the Cedars Rally I know if I continue or not.
So you don’t have long term projects?
The intention is there but it depends on how we do in the rally.
Why did you pick TG Rally Skills and not any other team?
Well I met Tony Germany some time before and we discussed the matter, I liked the way he was dealing with it and I thought I would try with him.
What will you be driving?
We will be driving an EVO 9 R4.
Why did you choose Ramy Menhem as your co-driver and not somebody from the old generation?
To be honest none of the guys from the old generation are co-driving any more. I know Ramy and his brother from the days I used to rally and we are good friends. They used to always be with me, but the most important thing is to be comfortable with the guys next to you in the car.
What is the difference between the old days now?
It is totally different for me, the car, the preparation and everything else. You should consider me someone starting rallying now for the first time.
Who are the new emerging talents in motorsports now in your opinion?
Well you will be surprised but I am not following that much. I am totally new; forget the fact that I used to rally before.
We used to hear from our parents that you started driving when you were around 8 years old. They used to witness a car running on the road but cannot spot the driver. What have you learned from driving in a very young age?
I learned a lot, and broke a lot of cars and drove a lot to reach the point I am in now.
[singlepic id=603 w=320 h=240 float=left]Do you think that Christian Korban has been given the credit he deserves for the talent he has so far?
I wasn’t given the right credit. Not at all.
Is it too late to get the credit you deserve?
Well I cannot tell you. You have to give me the time so I know myself. You should consider me someone starting new.
Are you doing the official tests?
Yes I will be testing for 2 days. I really need them. I am a beginner now and I need the tests.
Any last message?
I would like to thank my sponsors, LOGE café and restaurant, and straight-line.
Photos by Akl Yazbeck
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