Duval: I can win more rallies

The 25 year-old secured his maiden victory in 64 attempts in the Rally Australia after retirements to leading runners Sebastien Loeb, Petter Solberg and Marcus Gronholm.

It marks a positive end to a troubled year for the Belgian. After switching from Ford in the close season, Duval was dropped for two rallies after his co-driver Stephane Prevot walked out following several crashes in the opening rounds.

However, Duval was reinstated to the Citroen squad after those two rallies out with new co-driver Sven Smeets and ended the season with victory. He now searches for a drive for next season, as Citroen are taking a sabbatical.

"We have to wait and see what next year brings," Duval said. "There were some problems at the start of year, but the collaboration with Sven has worked very well. We have scored a lot of points and I have no regrets this weekend.

"I hope I can continue the relationship with Sven, it's working well. I'm still very young and I hope to continue what I have started with my first win here in Australia. The recce for this rally went very well, I didn't have any problems with the notes. If I can find a good car next year, then I don't see any reason not to continue to win.

"On the first two days I drove at 100 per cent and had the most fun I've had all year. On the third day I was able to control my pace a little bit more. There was a battle behind between Harri Rovanpera and Colin McRae - I had to keep my eye on that.

"The pressure from Harri was at its greatest yesterday, when there was only a small gap. Then he had a spin and I was able to control the gap a little it more, while I was keeping up a good pace."

Citroen boss Guy Frequelin said that Duvals's chances of continuing in a privateer Xsara next year depended on sponsorship. Sebastien Loeb and Xavier Pons have been confirmed in privateer cars for Kronos next season.

"It's difficult to say for the moment for Francois next season," Frequelin said. "We try to find a sponsor for 2006, because you know Citroen stops in 2006 and comes back in 2007. In 2006, Citroen develops the C4 and we need to find a solution with a sponsor, I hope for Kronos. I know it's very important for Francois and Sven."