Gronholm could quit in rule change row

World rally champion Marcus Gronholm has threatened to quit the sport if changes proposed by the FIA, the governing body of world motorsport, are introduced as early as next year, according to this week's AUTOSPORT magazine

Jul 3, 2003, 7:47 AM

The proposals outlined by the FIA following the World Council meeting last week would change the face of world rallying beyond recognition. The most significant change would see the events run over four days instead of three, with the recce being incorporated into the mainstay of the rally action.

Gronholm believes that the ideas are a step too far. "This is really just bullsh*t," he said. "I can't see how any of this could be a good idea. Take the idea of doing our reconnaissance in the rally car - really? It's crazy.

"If we are supposed to be doing the recce in our rally car, we'll end up listening to the engine and looking that the car is doing on that stage. It's just a crazy idea. Who thinks these things up?"

Gronholm has said that he could bring his career to a premature conclusion, if the rules are introduced.

"I feel from my heart about this," he said. "I feel it is wrong, and if the changes are made then I do not want to be part of the sport."