Swede Solberg eager to emulate father’s Safari Rally legacy
World Rally Championship rising star Oliver Solberg says he is eager to emulate his father’s legacy during this year’s Safari Rally which makes a comeback to the global arena after a 19-year hiatus.
In an interview, Solberg candidly admitted his family has unfinished business with the iconic event considered one of the world’s toughest rallies.
Solberg has high hopes of tackling the fabled Safari, by and large, one of his career dreams.
The son of the 2003 World Rally Champion Petter Solberg, Oliver will be hoping to tap on his father’s Safari Rally experience to write his own.
The senior Solberg made his Safari debut in 1999 driving a Ford Focus.
“Safari Rally is one of my dream races. My father has lots of stories from the event.
I have seen several videos with a lot of adventures and really good sites. It would be an amazing experience to take on,” says the young Solberg.
“The rally would not be like in the old days. For sure, it will be different now. But it will be a great opportunity nevertheless.
Dad has told me so many stories from the fans, stages and he says it is one of the best places he has been too. I am hopeful I will be there and get my own experience,” he said.
The 19-year-old Solberg has had an impressive path to becoming a top driver. He is already being courted by Team Hyundai. The Swedish driver is looking forward to better returns during the season.
“I want to be in a WRC car longer for sure. But the plan is still on the WRC 2 with R5 and tries to win the championship there.
After that, then we can work towards getting a seat with one of the manufacturers in future.”
