Ford bosses tip Martin for title

The Greek event was the third rally for the new Focus RS WRC03. Martin had been quick in the car's previous two outings, but mechanical problems had forced him out of each event. But Wilson believes that both driver and car will be strong for the rest of the season.

"I think we will see a big change now," Wilson told WRC.com. "With this result I think the championship for him is not out of the question and the car will be very strong from now on.

"The performance of Markko and the car is there for all to see. As long as we can keep on top of the mechanical issues, the future looks very promising."

The man behind the new Focus, Ford technical director Christian Loriaux, also believes that Martin can contend for the title. "Markko can be world champion this year," he told WRC.com. "I said that to him after we saw the speed of the car in New Zealand. If Markko keeps driving like he has been driving in New Zealand, Argentina and Greece, I am sure the car now can win any rally.

"The ball is in our court. If we have a reliable car, Markko can be world champion this year. It won't be that easy. But it is possible."