Russian rally driver Evgeny Novikov’s hopes of a second straight podium at the Rally of Argentina ended on the first day as he retired on the third stage Friday.
Novikov was running seventh when he ran into trouble after nine kilometers of the 52-kilometer Agua de Oro stage and stopped shortly afterwards, reportedly missing a wheel, the World Rally Championship website said.
Ford driver Novikov claimed second place in Portugal earlier this month for his first podium finish in the world championship, profiting from the disqualification of winner Mikko Hirvonen when his car was found to be using illegal parts.
Moscow-born Novikov was fifth in the world championship at the start of the round in Argentina.
