Jari-Matti Latvala takes the reins

Mikko Hirvonen made a mistake in the morning, Jari-Matti Latvala represents the only hope of victory for Ford. So far, the Finn is coping well with his status. He set the best times in SS6 and SS7, taking the lead in the general classification at the end of this last special.

In SS8, he finished second, tied with Séabstien Ogier and three tenths from Sébastien Loeb. Before tackling the last three special stages of the day, Latvala, already winner of a rally this season (New Zealand), has a good lead over its competitors.

Petter Solberg, a moment leader, lost a lot of time and is now 7?9 behind the new leader. Behind, the gaps are greater. Sébastien Ogier is third at 20??7, while Sébastien Loeb and Dani Sordo are both 31??8 behind.