Loeb Take the Lead in Rally Argentina after SS1

Sebastien Loeb stormed to 1st place overall in the first Super-Special of Rally Argentina on Thursday night, one full second clear of title rival Mikko Hirvonen and teammate Dani Sordo. The reigning WRC champion will look to conquer the South American event for the 5th year running and will complete the opening run on Friday, during the fully-fledged stages. The 2.4-km SS1 went under way on the inner section of the Estadio Cordoba stadium, in front of thousands of enthusiast Argentine fans. Loeb agreed it was a difficult stage to tackle for the opening round of the rally – because of the slippery surface – but was content he could top the WRC pack ahead of the Friday action. “It was very slippery in there - and very easy to make a mistake. I’m happy to have got around with no problem. The fact that we’ve got the best time makes it perfect,” said the Frenchman. Second overall Hirvonen admitted he didn't drive at his best in the final section of the super-special, as he was more concerned about protecting his Ford Focus WRC from a potential crash into the barriers. “I slid a little wide on the final bend - the surface was very slippery and I concentrated on making sure I didn't hit any of the concrete barriers. It’s a great stage for the people to come and watch, but the real stuff starts tomorrow!” admitted the Finnish driver. Third overall was Citroen's Dani Sordo, ahead of Solberg duo Petter and Henning. The Top 8 was completed by Ford's Jari-Matti Latvala, Citroen Junior's Sebastien Ogier and Stobart's Matthew Wilson. SS1 Results – Rally Argentina