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Tänak survives terrifyng off

Ott Tänak said: 

"It was a different experience today. I braked too hard into a compression which damaged the front-right suspension. We couldn't steer the car around the next left-hand corner and went off the edge of the road. The drop was so steep that we rolled into the water.

"Luckily the car landed on its wheels but the water was so deep that the car sank really fast. As soon as we opened the doors the car was gone in just a few seconds. I also had a problem with my intercom wire because it didn't come loose and was dragging me under the water. We were really lucky. It was not a nice moment to have.

"After that there was no chance to contact the team. The radio was gone and there was very little phone signal where we were. No one back at the team knew what had happened to us for almost 20 minutes and that - as you can imagine - was a big concern for everyone back in the service park.

"I've never had this type of feeling before. It's an empty feeling but the best thing is to get back in the car. The team are trying to get the car back as soon as possible and they are ready to fight all night to repair it ready for tomorrow. It sounds like a crazy plan, but if there is any chance to restart the rally I know my team can make it happen."

Elfyn Evans (6th) said:

"It's been difficult out there with really changeable grip levels. We had a good time through the long stage [SS4], but when I got to the end I didn't think it had been that good. I felt as though we had been a bit too hesitant but there were clearly some positives so that bodes well.

"I'm sure the stages will be rougher this afternoon so there is that to keep in mind, but hopefully we can have some more consistent grip and concentrate on having a clean run with another improvement in pace.

"Dan [Barritt, co-driver] and I are obviously also very relieved to hear that both Ott and Raigo are okay, and I have no doubt that they will bounce back strongly."