Solberg happier than ever at Ford

Despite just missing out on a second consecutive podium on last week’s Rally Sweden, Petter Solberg says he couldn’t be happier with his progress in a Fiesta RS WRC.

A puncture on the final day of the Karlstad event cost Solberg his chance to fight for a second podium finish in as many rallies, but the Norwegian is only taking positives to the third round of the 2012 FIA World Rally Championship powered by Nokia.

After a two-day test ahead of Rally Sweden, Solberg’s first time in the Ford World Fiesta RS WRC on a loose surface, the 2003 world champion was straight into the battle for a top three place and remained their for the duration of the rally. He now heads to next month’s Rally Mexico third in the drivers’ championship, three points ahead of his fellow Ford World Rally Team driver Jari-Matti Latvala.

Solberg said: “Of course, it is a little disappointing to miss the podium, but I tell you, I am having the most incredible time right now. I am loving being a factory driver again. Before I go to Mexico, I have two tests with the team, which is just fantastic news for me. People told me this car was good on the loose and they’re absolutely right. Now I just can’t wait to get it on the gravel and see what we can do in Mexico. I’m the happiest I’ve been for a very long time. You know, as a team we are close with Citroen and they’re the aim for this year. Jari’s win in Sweden was just what we needed, it’s going to be a great season.”