Subaru's number two driver, Chris Atkinson has retired from leg 1 of the Rally Japan after a crash in SS6.
Atkinson, who had been running eighth overall, went off the road at the second split in the 13.95 kilometre-run through Cup Kamuy 2. Chris and co-driver, Stephane Prevot both escaped unharmed.
The Banbury-based operation will now assess the extent of the damage to the Impreza when it is returned to the service park and then they will decide whether or not the Aussie can re-start on Saturday under the SupeRally format.
Atkinson's exit follows that of his team-mate, Petter Solberg, who went out
en-route to SS6 with gear selection problems.
More to follow as we get it...
