SS1, Langley Park: Sainz starts well

The Spaniard charged through the short test in 1m30.5secs, just two-tenths faster than Peugeot's Didier Auriol. Sainz lies fourth in the championship standings and needs a good result Down Under to keep his title hopes alive.

Pasi Hagstrom was a surprise third quickest in his Toyota Finland-entered Corolla WRC, outpacing series regulars Francois Delecour (Ford) and Petter Solberg (Subaru). The latter's fifth fastest time was matched by local Neal Bates in another Corolla.

The other title contenders made a gentle start to the event, no doubt keeping their powder dry until the serious stuff starts tomorrow.

Colin McRae (Ford) was 15th, while Richard Burns (Subaru) and Tommi Makinen set an identical time for 17th place.

With our stage-by-stage reports, news as it breaks, drivers' reactions from service and live timings, this is your one-stop shop for all the action from Australia.

For full times from SS1, click here.

For full rally live timings, click here.

For rally itinerary, click here.

For full entry list, click here.