Latvala promises to drive cautiously

The Ford driver was leading in Portugal when he clipped a barrier and rolled 17 times down a cliff-side. Remarkably, both Latvala and his co-driver Miikka Antilla escaped uninjured.

The accident came despite Latvala pledging to take a more measured approach in Portugal following costly mistakes in two of the three previous events.

There was immediately speculation that his place in the factory team would come under threat, but Latvala has retained his drive for Argentina and says he will follow team boss Malcolm Wilson's instructions to drive conservatively.

"I have spoken with Malcolm Wilson and we're both comfortable that I drive for a finish in Argentina," said Latvala.

"I would be happy with fourth and if anything else comes along then that would be a bonus. It's important for me and the team that I drive steadily, take a solid result and rebuild my confidence."

He added that he had already got over the accident and had no problem returning to the car in the week after Portugal.

"I stayed in Portugal because on Monday and Tuesday after the rally I was back behind the wheel to give passenger rides to some guests," said Latvala.

"I completed 240km and it felt good, I had no fear after the crash.

"The longer the wait before getting back in a car after a big accident, the worse it is as there is more time to think about the situation. It is always better to drive again as soon as possible."