While he did win a stage, it was on the last day on the first run of the Power Stage. And he had already crashed once and been off road numerous times. I think he is driving on tarmac just like he used to in the IRC - into things. A more progressive approach to tarmac might be wiser. Better to do a Breen and come 5th, than to Rally2.
Rossel will be one of the drivers, and probably one or two Italians.
From this article, it's also clear that if the WRC goes to Roma, there will be some support coming from the promoter also:...
Tarmac rallies are part of the WRC challenge for drivers.
And having the Championship in a major European capital city will bring great publicity to the sport there.
It is big political fight in Italy if it will be in Sardegna or Rome. Like usually...
Rally2 (ex-R5) News