This is the dramatic moment when co-driver Chris Patterson turned driver on Rally Sweden today.
Patterson, from Northern Ireland, was handed the keys to Solberg’s Citroen DS3 WRC after the Norwegian was prevented from driving.
Solberg was caught speeding on a public highway on Friday afternoon and was given 48 hours before he could no longer drive. The restriction also extended to the rally’s final stage.
“I knew at the regroup before the final stage that I would have to drive the last stage,” said the 42-year-old Patterson. “I’d never driven the car before but we had good laughter the whole way through. Road safety is very important and we have to abide by the rules. Petter was unfortunately speeding and paid the price.”
Patterson’s efforts ensured he and Solberg completed the final stage of the rally in fifth overall in their Petter Solberg World Rally Team-run car.