Loeb to play it safe

The Frenchman's 17 point lead over Petter Solberg in the championship means that he may be looking at points finish instead of gunning for outright victory.

"I have always found this rally difficult," he said. "Early on in last year's event, I was slower than my team-mates for the first time. It's an event where I have sometimes had the impression that I'm going well, only to find that I wasn't quick enough.

"To win this prestigious rally is a dream that I hope to fulfil one day, but winning the world title is more important. My position in the championship means I can take a step back and look at the overall picture."

Citroen's motorsport boss Guy Frequelin has admitted that he is cautious about his team's chances. "Rally Finland still represents a formidable fortress," he said. "For us to conquer it represents a tough, if exciting challenge.

"It is a unique event, and our priority will not be to beat the local specialists at all costs, but to finish in the big points.

"We are in a favourable position in both championships, but our lead is not sufficiently strong for us to be able to indulge in fantasies that could compromise our advantage. Just like a football team that is ahead, we can choose not to expose ourselves and yet be ready to pounce on an opening if one should come up."