Latvala moves Stobart forward… but for 2008 again?

With ten best times in seventeen stages, Jari-Matti Latvala left his mark on this last event of the season. The Ford Stobart driver clearly demonstrated his potential and may have secured his promotion…

« The conditions were very difficult, » says the Finn.

« I am very happy to have achieved so many best times. I was on a good pace throughout the rally, at about 95%. I am disappointed to have lost time on Friday but I showed my performance and consistency. I wanted to improve my driving skills, I am happy with my progress. »

Jari-Matti Latvala finished tenth, 10’42”4 behind Mikko Hirvonen despite more than 10 minutes and 50 seconds of penalties – making up 8 seconds on the leader.

Present on the roads of the Wales Rally GB, Stobart boss Andrew Tinkler expressed great satisfaction with the performances of the team he sponsors. The Briton even looked ahead to the next season.

« The championship has been fantastic for our team, I don’t think anyone could have imagined that we would be competing with Subaru this year, » admits the head of the transport company.

« We are very happy to have seen our young drivers, including Jari-Matti [Latvala], make progress. The results are very encouraging for next season. Our performances are there, we just need to keep working! »

Without commenting on a possible departure, Latvala could very well move to the parent company of Stobart, in order to replace the newly retired Gronholm at FORD BP. At the moment, he remains the most serious candidate.

According to the WRC