Rees: there’s more to come from Petter

Petter Solberg’s team manager Ken Rees believes the Norwegian can up his pace on the second day of Rallye de France Alsace.

Solberg, in a privateer Citroen DS3 WRC, began day two one second behind leader Dani Sordo, in a MINI John Cooper Works WRC after Friday’s opening eight stages.

“Petter is driving within himself, he’s happy and he’s quick,” said Rees. “We came here to get a podium, we’re driving for a podium but it just happens the pace is there and we’re beating Sebastien Ogier [in the factory car].”

Solberg, currently fifth in the WRC drivers’ standings, hasn’t won a round of the world championship since claiming victory on Wales Rally GB in 2005.

“Petter desperately wants this win,” said Rees. “People are talking about moving seats and drives for next year so to get a win here would be fantastic. It also proves he’s got the pace still because he’s in a customer car, not a full-spec factory car. It’s so close and a big push in the morning could get him in front of Dani. But Ogier will push and Citroen will want him to win in France. However, we want to beat him and Dani.”