Peugeot's B-team flies flag

Gronholm crashed out of the event on the first stage of the opening day, leaving Peugeot's hopes in the hands of Robert and Loix.

"It's been a fantastic experience," said Robert. "To be in a top car competing against the world's best drivers is always a privilege. I started the rally with a degree of caution, because I wanted to be sure of seeing the finish. But I think we chose the right compromise between speed and safety, and I'm delighted to get this result."

Loix was chasing Robert down on the final day until he broke a wheel rim on the final loop of stages and dropped back.

He said: "It's been a good event for us, despite a couple of problems on the opening day. But after then things got a lot better and I was able to make up a lot of places. This rally was not easy for me, as the conditions were constantly unpredictable. However, I really enjoyed it and I think we did our best under the circumstances. I'm looking forward to my next rally in the 307 WRC now."

Peugeot Sport team principal Corrado Provera said: "Cedric and Freddy have done an excellent job for us, and confirmed the efficiency of the 307 WRC and its new five-speed gearbox. However, the early retirement of Marcus was a deep disappointment."