Solberg and Loeb close in on title fight
Following a thrilling Rally Australia, a four-way battle for the World Rally Championship is brewing, with Petter Solberg's and Sebastien Loeb's storming drives to claim first and second Down Under pitching them firmly into the hunt. With four rounds to go, just 10 points cover the leading quartet in the standings
Richard Burns continues to lead the championship with 55 points, having finished third in Australia for Peugeot. Subaru's Solberg has moved into a tie for second with Carlos Sainz (Citroen) on 48 points, with Citroen's Loeb narrowly behind on 45. Marcus Gronholm (Peugeot) and Markko Martin (Ford) can both still win the title, but with 38 and 37 points respectively will need some luck to move into contention.
"We're in a good situation for the championship but Petter and Sebastien drove very well here," said Burns, who has yet to win a rally this year. "I'm sure they will be a big threat on the last four rounds as well."
A major factor in deciding who will claim the crown comes from the fact that three of the final four events will take place on sealed roads. Of the championship contenders, Loeb has the best pedigree on asphalt, having already taken one victory this year on the surface, in Germany.
"The car is very fast on tarmac," said Loeb, "and me too, I hope. We will see."
The battle for the manufacturers' crown is even closer, with Peugeot and Citroen now tied on 110 points, and sharing the same number of victories and second-place finishes. Peugeot currently leads the championship - by virtue of its cars having finished third more times.
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