Oliver Solberg has taken an early lead at Rally Portugal, showcasing impressive pace during the opening stages of the event.
The young driver managed to navigate the challenging gravel stages effectively, building a narrow gap over his closest competitors in the WRC2 category.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai factory team demonstrated strong performance in the top tier, with their drivers claiming early stage wins to challenge Toyota’s dominance.
Championship leaders faced difficulties as the loose road surface provided low grip, allowing those starting further back to capitalize on cleaner conditions.
Despite the dusty and demanding environment, Solberg remained composed, noting that the car felt balanced and responsive throughout the morning loops.
With many grueling stages still ahead, the battle for the lead remains tight, as teams look to manage tire wear and mechanical reliability in the Portuguese heat.
