Hirvonen hopes for works drive

The Ford privateer, who drives a 2003-spec Focus WRC, stole third place in the Spanish event on the final stage when his closest rival Xavier Pons stalled his Citroen at the start of the run.

Speaking to autosport.com immediately after the finish, Hirvonen said: "I can't believe I have scored my first podium on an asphalt rally.

"When I saw Xavier had stalled I knew there was a chance to push. It was an interesting stage and I don't think I could have gone any quicker.

"It is a terrific result for me and the whole team and, who knows, it might help with finding a works drive for next year."

Pons was philosophical about his late disappointment - with the stall turning a 6.5 seconds advantage over Hirvonen into a 1.2 seconds deficit at the finish.

After being handed third place last night when Hirvonen was docked 20 seconds for being late out of the service area, Pons knew that he really had little cause for complaint.

"It is still a good result for me and the team," he said. "But I could not believe it when the engine just died on the line. That said, Mikko did have his penalty last night so it is not so bad."