Duval in Monte Carlo

Francois Duval has confirmed in his official website that he will compete on next year's Rallye Automobile Monte Carlo (January 25-27) with Stobart VK M-Sport Ford Rally Team.

The Belgian, who was an official works driver for Ford from 2002 until 2004, will use the latest spec Ford Focus RS WRC on the season opener.

"This is a true gift that has fallen from the sky - something that is normal at this time of year!" he joked. "I owe this chance mainly to Steven Vergalle, who on a purely private basis, has decided to support me," he added. "For this occasion, it will be a crew that is 100 per cent Belgian because I will have as my co-driver, Eddy Chevalier, who has already good experience of the world championship."

"Now I wait impatiently for the first tests before the rally, which will be very new for me because I missed the event last year. I hope this collaboration will continue after that but for that to happen it will be necessary for me to get a good result."

The Stobart team is expected to officially confirm its plans for the 2008 FIA World Rally Championship tomorrow (Friday, December 21st).