The Mitsubishi Ralliart World Rally Team has announced their intention to withdraw from the 2003 WRC. The team made the shock announcement today (02/12/02), citing competitive and economic factors as the reason for the withdrawal.
Difficult economic circumstances have damaged the Mitsubishi Motor Company, the parent company that funds the Ralliart team, and the gap-year is viewed as a way to help the company return to profitability and growth. The disappointing performance of the Ralliart team in 2001 and 2002 has also had a bearing on the decision. The team has opted to focus its efforts on developing a car capable of challenging for top honours in the WRC.
The team is expected to either continue developing the difficult Lancer WRC or opt for a new car based on the smaller Colt model. While the Lancer was the car to beat in the late 1990's Group A format, Ralliart's decision to delay introducing their WRC-spec Lancer has left the team struggling to make up lost ground on rivals Subaru, Ford and most notably Peugeot.
The team's two main drivers, Alistair McRae and Francois Delacour will remain contracted to Ralliart in 2003 but it is expected that they will be loaned out to rival outfits for one-off appearances on selected rallies next year.
Back to WRC Discussion Page
Back to Main Page
© 2000 motorsportforum@yahoo.co.uk