Rovanpera set for Peugeot full season

Rovanpera looked set to follow team mate Marcus Gronholm home for a Peugeot one-two until a shock absorber problem on his 206 WRC forced the Finn to drop back costing him two places.

The 35-year-old is only completing a part-season with the French marque this year, but is hoping to step up to a full-time drive for 2002. And Rovanpera looks to have already done enough to impress Peugeot boss Corrado Provera with this weekend's performance allied to victory in Sweden and a second place on last month's gruelling Safari Rally.

"It is true that we are in very advanced discussions with Harri," said Provera. "He is a nice guy, a fast driver and a gentleman. We really would like him to stay with us and he seems to like the idea."

Rovanpera has been nominated to score manufacturers' points for Peugeot on the last two rallies over team regular Didier Auriol. However, he remains unsure as to whether a full works drive is on the cards or not.

"It's very nice of Corrado to say that and I'll be very pleased if that's possible," said Rovanpera, after his fourth place on Sunday.

For Rally Finland results, click here.