Drivers back future for race in New Zealand

Some of the world's leading drivers have jumped to the defence of the New Zealand round of the world rally circuit as it battles to stay in the global calendar.

This year's rally starts tomorrow, but next year's event has been forced out of the World Rally Championship because of a date clash with the Rugby World Cup, which is being held in New Zealand, and there is no guarantee it will be reinstated after that.

Rally New Zealand, with its famous gravel roads, has been on the world circuit since 1977.

Reigning champion Sebastien Loeb, who is leading the championship this year, said the rally was one he looked forward to racing in.

"The stages are magnificent and fairly easy on the car. It's one of the rallies where you get the most pleasure out of driving."

Finnish driver Mikko Hirvonen described New Zealand as one of his favourite rallies.

"It's fast, it's smooth and it's fun. And there's a bigger emphasis on endurance," he said.