Torrential downpours wrecked havoc on Rally Ireland’s leader-board today, as the 2009 FIA World Rally Championship got off to a typically dramatic start.

BP-Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team’s Jari-Matti Latvala made the early running, the 23-year old Finn’s winter tyre choice ensuring he demolished all challengers in the event’s opening, 22.25km Glenboy1 stage.

However, disaster struck Latvala on the following 15.09km Cavan 1 stage (2); two punctures and damage to his Abu Dhabi branded car’s steering and drive shaft forcing him to retire from the first day’s competition.

Stobart’s Estonian driver, Urmo Aava and Citroen’s five-time world champion, Sebastien Loeb – who won Cavan 1 and the 25.19km Aughnasheelan 1 (stage 3) – were the principal benefactors, moving into his first and second, respectively.

Perhaps sensing the potential danger, Latvala’s BP-Ford Abu Dhabi team-mate, Mikko Hirvonen, was the model of calmness in the slippery conditions. The 27-year old finished fourth, third and third in the morning stages to reach the midday service in third overall, just 30.9secs adrift of Aava and 24.2 behind arch-rival Loeb.

"There is so much water, a lot more than we expected," said Hirvonen. "I had two massive moments in the second stage and I didn’t want to risk anything. I needed to back off and make sure I got through the morning. It’s all about keeping the car on the road. Points are very important and we can’t let Citroen get away – I have to focus on my own times."

UAE driver Sheikh Khalid Al Qassimi produced one of his most professional WRC efforts to date, the highlight coming when the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority-backed driver clocked the sixth fastest time on Cavan 1 (stage 2) – his highest stage finish ever at rally’s elite level.

Al Qassimi, running ninth on the road, reached the midday service in 10th place, only 18secs behind eighth place and the drivers’ points positions.

"It’s great to have finished sixth in stage two – I was faster than several of the big boys and that’s a good feeling," said Al Qassimi. "I was planning to go faster in stage three but I hit a couple of huge puddles and it really damaged my confidence.

"The roads are so narrow and it’s difficult. I’m happy though, I know I have more pace and I’m just trying to balance speed and caution," he added.

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