Auriol's future in question

The former world champion had previously stated that he wished to complete October's asphalt rounds before making his decision, however the Frenchman is asking for a little more time.

"I am still talking with Skoda Motorsport because I would like to continue driving in the WRC," said Auriol. "Nothing is yet decided so we must wait a little longer before I can say anything for certain."

Skoda's Petr Kohoutek says that Auriol is not the team's only option for next season, and that former Skoda favourite Armin Schwarz could also be in the frame.

"Armin is a possibility," Kohoutek told AUTOSPORT. "But then, we have maybe another 10 who might also be possibilities. There are lots of drivers out there who are looking for work - and that is not including those from areas like the Junior World Rally Championship."

Schwarz scored Skoda's best result to date, with a third-place podium position in the 2001 Safari Rally. The German driver will be in Wales this weekend commentating for TV broadcaster RTL. The German, who was left without a drive after Hyundai withdrew from the WRC earlier this season, hinted that he is not ready to hang up his driving gloves just yet.

"I have been building future projects for quite a while," he said. "Some of them are shaping up very well. Unfortunately I can't tell you anything about these things right now, but before long, and I can hopefully come out with the news."