Solberg pleased with C4 pace

Despite 300 kilometres of testing and nine runs at the shakedown stage yesterday, Solberg was still talking down his first event in a C4 on the eve of the start of the Catalunya Rally.

But the 2003 world champion was fourth fastest on every one of the morning's three stages - quickest of all the private Citroens.

"I have to say, the morning has gone a little better than expected," he said. "I was a little bit cautious in the first stage where the road was damp, but that was just me.

"I haven't taken any risks this morning. There is a lot more to come from me and from the car. I'm still finding my rhythm with the car and with asphalt driving, it's a long time since Corsica last year [Solberg's last asphalt WRC outing]."

At yesterday's pre-event press conference, Solberg said he thought a podium finish was possible in Spain, and that remains his target.

"I need to build the speed more, but that's going to come tomorrow," he said. "The car is fantastic, but I still need to make some small changes. The podium would be nice, but my focus is also on Rally GB - I want to get through this event without any mistakes and then get to GB for a big fight."