“I could not win so second was the next best result," said Grönholm.  "I only conceded two points to Loeb on what is one of his strongest events of the season and I still lead the Championship after two consecutive weekends on asphalt, which is my least favourite surface.  I really had to drive quite hard today because Dani Sordo was pushing behind us and I couldn't afford to let him get near.  On the first day I was really close to Seb but I couldn't match him on Saturday, although I feel my asphalt driving is more consistent than last year.”

Two of the remaining three events should favour the 39 year old Finn; Japan and Wales Rally GB, both run on unsealed surfaces. If Grönholm can reverse the finishing order in Japan, which Loeb won last year, the 2007 World Rally Championship could be decided on its 16th and final round in Wales.

Welshman Phil Mills, co-driving with Norway’s Petter Solberg (Subaru Impreza WRC) was fifth overall, 11.6 seconds behind Finland’s Jari-Matti Latvala (Ford Focus RS).

Britain’s Matthew Wilson (Stobart Ford Focus) retired from 10th place with one special stage to go of the 16-stage rally after losing all drive.

Link to Rallye de France http://www.rallyedefrance.com/2007/en/