Ford commit to staying in world championship

Ford are committed to staying in the world rally championship next season despite the global economic crisis forcing out Japanese manufacturers Subaru and Suzuki, the carmaker said yesterday.

"We are naturally disappointed to learn of the withdrawal of both Japanese manufacturers," the former champions said in a statement.

"Ford announced during Rally GB earlier this month that we will participate in 2009 and we look forward to renewing our challenge with the Ford Focus RS WRC for both the manufacturers' and drivers' championships.

"Involvement in the WRC benefits Ford in various ways," added the carmaker.

"It provides a big impetus to our product reputation and sales, especially for the Focus.

"For Ford to demonstrate our products in a successful way, on a global basis via television and the internet, through involvement in the World Rally Championship represents good value."

Ford were champions in 2006 and 2007 but, with plunging sales worldwide, the parent company is seeking a line of credit from the US government while Detroit rivals are threatened with bankruptcy unless they get a bailout of billions of dollars.

Three of the six teams in this year's manufacturers' championship were Ford-backed with their BP Abu Dhabi factory team losing out to Citroen.

Citroen, with France's five-times champion Sebastien Loeb, are set to be the only other works-funded team in the full 12-rally manufacturers' championship, although numerous privately-run entries will compete in limited events.

Ford will retain their line-up of Finland's Mikko Hirvonen and compatriot Jari-Matti Latvala.

Former champions Subaru, a leading name in the sport in recent decades, announced their withdrawal on Tuesday. Newcomers Suzuki had departed a day earlier while Honda pulled out of Formula One on Dec. 5.