Motorsport: Makinen close to Safari Rally victory

Tommi Makinen eased towards his 23rd world rally victory yesterday as he maintained his overnight lead during the second leg of the Safari Rally in Kenya.

The Mitsubishi driver opted for caution after his nearest rival, Carlos Sainz, retired on the opening stage of the day through engine failure.

Makinen ended the day with his lead increased to more than six minutes over Finnish compatriot Harri Rovanpera in a Peugeot.

Norwegian Petter Solberg posted three fastest stage times and he retained his third place, but was more than 10 minutes down on Makinen.