Loeb makes most of Solberg slip

World champion Sebastien Loeb took full advantage of Petter Solberg's misfortune to lead by almost half a minute on day one of Rally Mexico.

Solberg looked set to take the early initiative until he was forced to retire with an engine problem at the start of El Cubilete Two.

The Norwegian was ahead by 2.5 seconds when his Subaru started to lose oil. Three-time defending champion Loeb roared ahead unchallenged in his Citroen C4 WRC, establishing a 27-second advantage over the field.

Solberg had at one stage led by as much a 7.7 seconds, but an enthralling battle with Loeb ensued in which the Frenchman won SS4, narrowing the gap further in Ortega Two.

Loeb told www.autosport.com: "I'm really happy with the start we've had.

"It's important to also be very fast on gravel. At the moment, I'm very happy with the performance, and hopefully we can continue with that."

Behind runaway leader Loeb, a battle is developing for the remaining top-six places.

Solberg's Australian team-mate Chris Atkinson moved up to second following the Norwegian's retirement.

Atkinson is delighted with his new Impreza WRC2007, saying: "Now we're in a position to fight for podiums again, which is nice.

"Petter was leading and it was really unlucky what happened to him, but he'll be back stronger than ever in the next few rallies, and the whole team will be. We're working on the set-up this weekend and every stage we're improving."