Latvala's Sweden win surprises Wilson

"I had said that it would have been ideal for Jari-Matti to have another year at Stobart. I thought I was right after Monte Carlo but he's proved me wrong here," said Wilson.

"There was a lot of pressure on him stepping into the BP team. I did expect him to win but not until the second half of the season. He learned a lot in Monte Carlo and he did a fantastic job here."

Latvala was elated with his debut World Rally victory in Sweden yesterday and paid tribute to his Finnish countryman Henri Toivonen, whose record he broke as the youngest ever winner.

Latvala, who wasn't born until five years after Toivonen won the RAC Rally as a 24-year-old in 1980, said: "I can't describe this feeling with words, it's amazing, a very special moment.

"Henri was a big idol for me and I actually followed him very carefully when he was having his time.

"It's very emotional. My father doesn't cry so often but he did at the end of the final stage. He's been waiting 22 years for this moment. You always remember your first victory and I will never forget this."

Latvala accepted that he was helped by the running order on the first day - he started 10th after a poor result in the season-opener at Monte Carlo - but had to deal with mounting pressure on Saturday and Sunday as he closed in on victory.

"On Friday I had clean roads to drive and of course I got some benefit from that," he said. "I had a gap to Mikko which I controlled and we kept the lead to the end.

"The is always pressure and a little excitement, it helps you to perform. Last year I was too excited and used my energy in the wrong places. I have worked on my concentration and using the energy in the right way."

Latvala's co-driver Miikka Anttila believes the victory is a tribute to how he has matured since last season: "There have been many positive changes in Jari-Matti. He's going in the right direction and is very determined. He knows what he is doing now and knows what is expected of him."