Petter Solberg and Australian team-mate, Chris Atkinson at Rally Finland in 2005. Photo: Martin Holmes
Having said all that, it continually amazes me that we haven't seen Subaru competing in the WRC since its shock departure when the global financial crisis hit in December 2008.At the time, Subaru felt it had achieved its sporting and marketing objectives, and 11 years on, you'd have to say they were pretty spot on. Their cult following, more so than their success on the stages, is like nothing we've ever seen in rallying before, but it's also the very reason why the manufacturer should return.
Subaru driver Chris Atkinson in action at Rally Monte Carlo 2006.
A much-younger Oliver Solberg at Rally Japan in 2005. Photo: Martin Holmes
Surely experiences from the past are telling Subaru that now is as good a time as any.To be frank, the once heralded WRX is no longer a shadow of its former self – at least in the 'cult following' stakes. Returning to the WRC would not only do wonders for Subaru's performance image, but would almost certainly give their sales a real kick in the pants as well.
"FX" Demaison and Michel Nanden were part of Peugot's dominance in the early 2000s. Photo: Martin Holmes
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