Duval back in focus

Former factory Ford and Citroen driver Francois Duval says he will return to the Stobart VK M-Sport Ford World Rally Team for three more rallies following his fourth place in Monte Carlo at the start of the season.

Duval says he has a deal to contest Rally Deutschland, Rally Catalunya and the Tour de Corse in a Ford Focus RS WRC07. He added that he is also chasing the chance to compete on the season-closing Rally Great Britain.

“It’s the same sponsor and the same deal as in Monte Carlo,” said the Belgian. “I am very happy and very grateful for the backing. I’m really looking forward to driving again. It’s going to be hard work, though - I have been in my house for a very long time when I should have been driving rally cars.”

Duval’s last full-time contract in the WRC ended when he left Citroen Sport - after clinching his maiden WRC win in Australia - at the end of 2006.

Duval says he feels his best chance of success this season comes on the French island event, despite the fact he hasn’t led in Corsica since 2004. “I will have the confidence from Spain,” he said. “This will help me with the feel for the car.”