Team MRF-Skoda topped the time charts with debutant Fabian Kreim of Germany nosing ahead of Gaurav Gill by 1.2 seconds pending investigation at the end of the Super Special Stage as the International Rally of Whangarei commenced here on Friday.
The rally is the first round of the 2016 Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC).
Kreim, the 23-year old making his APRC debut, was quicker than Gill by 2.4 seconds in the first of the two runs of the 1.45 kilometres long Super Special Stage, but the Indian star made up with a blistering drive in the second outing that saw him reduce the leeway to 1.2.
However, there could yet be a twist to the results of the Super Special Stage. Gill, during the first run, came across the stalled car of Mike Young and was told to stop before being asked to proceed.
The incident cost the 34-year old Delhi-based Gill precious seconds, and the matter is under investigation, and a favourable decision could see the Indian climb to the top.
Pending a final decision, the difference between the two MRF-Skoda team-mates is negligible with eight Special Stages to be run on Saturday before the event concludes on Sunday after completing another six stages.
More From This Section
--IANS
sam/dg