Intro:

Problems mount for Sebastien Ogier as Jari-Matti Latvala takes advantage in opening leg of the Rally of France.

Script:

French fans have lined the streets in Strasbourg hoping to see Sebastien Ogier become World Champion once again in the Rally of France. But Friday couldn't have gone much worse for the Polo driver. First he span in stage 2, then he lost power because of a faulty gearbox sensor, and to make matters even worse they checked in early for Stage 3 and recieved a four-minute penalty. All that and a broken front left damper meant he finished the day well behind the leaders.

His nearest title challenger Jari-Matti Latvala has taken full advantage. Despite Ogier's problems Volkswagens are the cars to beat here, Latvala will battle Andreas Mikkelsen for maximum points.

The best of the rest is Britain's Kris Meeke, whose Citroen is third fastest.