Solberg wants heavy snow in Norway

The 2003 world champion is preparing for Norway's first ever WRC event, and he is feeling positive after his performance in Sweden.

Solberg led the rally during the early stages last weekend, and he was running in third place when his car became stuck in a ditch and he lost nearly 14 minutes.

"It felt positive to lead in Sweden," he said. "We showed that when the stages are covered in lots of snow and ice we can set fastest stage times.

"So we need those conditions, and have to hope that there is not too much gravel showing through when we use the stages for a second time."

Richard Taylor, managing director of the Subaru World Rally Team, believes that the weather should suit them.

"We were pleased with the pace of the car in Sweden," he said, "and if we can turn that into consistent speed in Norway, it should put us in a good position.

"Our experience in Sweden was that the car worked particularly well with the studded tyres when there was a lot of snow and ice on the stages.

"The forecast for Norway is more of those conditions. We'd like to think a podium finish is not out of the question for Petter if conditions are in our favour."