Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru cars, has revealed that Subaru were to pull out of the World Rally Championship at the end of 2009, but had brought forward the decision due to the severity of the business environment, Foxsports.com.au have reported.
"Our business environment has rapidly deteriorated. In order to protect the Subaru brand we were forced to make this decision," Fuji Heavy President Ikuo Mori told a press conference in Japan.
Mori fought back tears as he announced the decision, thanking Subaru fans.
He cited the global economic slump and falling car sales as major reasons.
It is still not known what team drivers, Petter Solberg, and Australian Chris Atkinson, will do next year, and if they will be able to secure drives in the WRC.
Subaru’s decision comes just a day after Suzuki ended their WRC program, leaving only Ford and Citroen in the championship. Given Ford’s economic problems worldwide, many are already predicting that the Blue Oval may follow suit.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.
