Those with sharp eyes could see him coming in 2008 from Group N.
'But who is Evgeniy Novikov, and what is this 18 year old doing amongst the world's best?' was the question asked by most people at the beginning of the year, when he was drafted into the Citroen Junior World Rally Team. For most of us after 2009, it's still a question awaiting an exhaustive answer – his introductory year brought rather frantic moments. Anyone remember what place he finished in Sardinia? I'm betting just a handful will know... That 5th place was his best in 2009. And what comes to mind when you hear his name? An astounding and very dangerous jump in Finland. I'll bet on that as well. But apart from these, Evgeniy gave me so many other precious moments that only he can give. It's these moments that drive me to the races to experience rally again and again. However, at the end of the day, someone has to pay price for these stunning pictures – the cost of several wrecked cars accumulated on his account. Therefore, I'm not betting more on him just yet. Or against him, for that matter!
Let's rethink this next year :)