Early shunt frustrates Solberg

The Norwegian was disadvantaged by running first, as those to follow him were able to read the road thanks to his wheeltracks.

"There was a lot of ice on the roads this morning and about 2km from the start [of the first stage] we went off the road on a very icy section and hit a fence post," said Solberg. "Then, halfway in on the approach to a hairpin, the engine stalled under braking and we lost about 15 seconds before we could get it started again - so, it was quite a difficult and an eventful stage for us. It was not the best possible start.

"Being first on the road is a disadvantage. There's a lot of snow and ice on the roads, and at the front I don't have the benefit of being able to read the road and the markings left by competitors up ahead."

Co-driver Phil Mills said: "It was a funny old day, typical Monte. Look back in history and it's always been difficult for the first car on the road. We were sweeping the slush and rubbish out of the way for everyone else, and it seemed like we were always on the wrong tyre. But things should change around tomorrow when were are sixth on the road, and I expect we'll make up a lot of ground."