Petter: 'I think a top three is possible'

World Rally Championship privateer Petter Solberg believes he has the potential for a top three finish on the Rally De Espana - his first event in a factory supported Citroen C4 WRC.

Solberg has tackled eight of the ten rallies so far this season at the wheel of an ageing Citroen Xsasa, but last month secured a C4 for the final two rounds, starting with this week's rally in Spain.

Solberg was fourth quickest at Thursday's Shakedown test, which he tackled 10 times - more than factory drivers Sebastien Loeb (4) and Dani Sordo (4) did in total.

Solberg told wrc.com: "It's taking a bit of time to get into the rhythm because this is a different car to drive but so far it's been great. I tested for two days last week and I must say I enjoyed it. It's been many years since I've been sitting in a car like this. It's good fun to drive, but you need some time to get into the rhythm - you can't just throw yourself in and think you can go fast.

"Compared to the Xsara this car needs a more aggressive driving style and I need to learn where the limit is. That's why I did so many runs on the Shakedown - just to get more experience. I should have done much more testing before the rally, and also at home in the go-kart, but I just didn't have the time.

"I haven't driven on tarmac since Corsica last year, so of course it will take time to get into the full rhythm - but it’s coming. I hope to improve my speed throughout the whole weekend and see where we can be. Maybe somewhere in the top three - I think it's possible."