“There was no problem with our Fabia - the vehicle has showed again that it is fast, reliable and competitive also on tarmac,” added Kopecky, who had a bit of a drama before SS10 when a motorcyclist rode into him on a road section, fortunately there were no serious consequences.

“I tried as best as I could, but I think this result is a real testimony to just how good our car is. I'd like to thank our entire team - we have had two second places now and we are third in the championship, which is a good sign that we are making progress."

Hanninen echoed those thoughts, although he is now eager to get to round six and get back on gravel: “It's been a tough competition in terms of the profile, not exactly up my street. I am glad to have got to the finish, and I consider the fifth place in the overall ranking positive. I am sure I will make good use of all the experience I have gained here.

“I wish to thank all members of the team for top-class support and for preparing my car excellently throughout the event.

“I am now looking forward to Russia, because I certainly prefer gravel to tarmac,” he summed-up.