Portugal pace ignites Loubet's Italy ambitions

M-Sport Ford's Frenchman went fastest on the opening stage of the rally to briefly lead the Matosinhos-based event. He was running fifth overall on Saturday when he damaged a wheel on the opening run through Amarante.

Despite being forced out of the second day of Portuguese action, Loubet’s confident his speed is at the right level now.

“Our performance,” he said, “in terms of pace, I think is strong already.

“On Friday and Saturday [in Portugal] the pace was there which is good, we went back to the set-up we had last year and I felt better in the car.

“We were able to set a best time and fight for the top three, but unfortunately the small mistake on Saturday had big consequences for us. It’s a shame but it's part of the rally unfortunately.

“I’m sure with the pace we have then the right results will come.”

M-Sport team principal Richard Millener was impressed with what he saw from Loubet, adding: “He’s shown grit and determination on what has been a rally of highs and lows for him. He had his fair share of bad luck with a puncture on Friday afternoon, but time and again he shows us that he’s not willing to give up. I am confident he’ll soon see the results he deserves.”