McRae confirms Citroen switch - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

Rakija · 09-26-2002, 04:44

Former champion signs one-year deal with French squad

Colin McRae has ended the speculation that has surrounded his future over the past few months by signing a one-year deal to drive for Citroen in 2003.

The news was announced at the Paris Motor Show this Thursday morning. A short statement from Citroen stated: "[Team boss] Guy Frequelin has asked Colin McRae to join the Citroen team for the 14 rallies of the 2003 World Rally Championship.

"With 25 victories in WRC, as well as a World Rally Champion title, Colin will bring to the Citroen team his valued experience in the field of rallying."

The Scot has signed a one-year deal with the French team.

http://www.autosport.com/newsitem.asp?id=20733&s=8

Ahh well, lets hope carlos sainz and marko martin get killer cars for next year

rallyman · 09-26-2002, 05:26

I don't think that Ford will be competitive next year as they'll be developing the car further. But 2004 should be a realistic goal for the Focus to get on top. Markko Martin is also a major reason why Ford didn't retain McRae....he's young, mature and FAST! I personally think that Citroen will go very well next year....and McRae will possibly win the championship! Good luck to him.

Adam W · 09-26-2002, 21:17

The one positive is that Ford will save a fair bit of money on new panels etc. When McRae crashes he usually crashes big.:dead:

Stealth00 · 09-29-2002, 18:27

McRAE was great entertainment value for Ford.

Lets hope Ford don't regret it.

kinobi · 09-30-2002, 20:56

yeh maybe he was but im sure that only wouldnt bring in that much money compared to what he is getting paid. where is you take Sainz who is bringing in SHIT LOADS of Spanish mulha for less wages and jsut as good results and now Martin on the team who is an excellent driver, it all adds to to Mcrae being a big money sink. sad to see him go though. wonder if Grist will follow him, things aint too rosy between them two.

rallyman · 10-04-2002, 07:12

Also, martin has been consistantly quicker than Sainz in almost every rally this year (including the NZ rally going on right now!) and it's only his FIRST YEAR in a full programme! he's a future champion and THE future for Ford Rallying!

Fireman Sam · 10-05-2002, 03:06

Quote:

Originally posted by rallyman
Also, martin has been consistantly quicker than Sainz in almost every rally this year (including the NZ rally going on right now!) and it's only his FIRST YEAR in a full programme! he's a future champion and THE future for Ford Rallying!

He's not quicker now, he's crashed.

FoMoCo4eva · 10-07-2002, 19:51

bugger mcrae..his got a bad attitude..

at least ford are gonna save some money...his salary included..lol

rallyman · 10-08-2002, 07:02

and now, McRae has split with co-driver Nicky Grist!
That's so sad......I hope Grist doesn't retire! He's a wonderful person with great character!