Major problems for Solberg

The Norweigan had been grappling with a lack of traction, overheating and brake problems during the morning stages. He lost time early on, but rebounded by winning SS4.

Solberg then moved up to fifth place before reportedly becoming stuck in gear during the third stage of the afternoon loop. He continued to the end of the stage, but lost a little over five minutes.

Before he can reach service for repairs, Solberg must negotiate two road sections and another special stage.

Several other key runners have also hit trouble on this loop. Star privateer Toni Gardemeister suffered a puncture right at the beginning of SS5 and then struggled to restart his car after stopping at the end of the stage. He tumbled from fourth to 11th but was able to continue.

Dani Sordo looks like he will have to retire from this leg after stopping in SS7 with reported engine failure. He was set to inherit fifth after Solberg's dramas.

Marcus Gronholm continues to lead the rally, although Sebastien Loeb has reduced his advantage to 10.5 seconds.