Moya joins Subaru as sporting director

Moya, 42, has "the perfect blend of hands-on experience, strategic know-how and enthusiasm" according to team principal David Lapworth and, after a hugely successful 14-year WRC career, enjoys a first class reputation with drivers and teams alike.

"Rallying has always been my passion," said Moya. "Since I left the co-driver's seat at the end of the 2002 season, I've been thinking carefully about other opportunities within the sport. For me, Subaru is the most prestigious team in the WRC, and the opportunity to work as part of their management team, especially at such a dynamic and exciting time, is just perfect."

Moya's WRC co-driving career started in 1988 when he teamed up with fellow Spaniard Carlos Sainz, and he won two world championship co-drivers' titles in 1990 and '92. With a career total of 24 WRC victories, he is the most successful co-driver in the history of the modern WRC.

"Anyone who knows Luis will tell you he's an inspirational and charismatic figure," said Lapworth. "With Solberg, Burns and the ongoing development of the Impreza, 2004 looks set to be one of the most exciting seasons our team has known, but it also promises to be one of the most fiercely competitive. Luis is an excellent team motivator, and with him on board, coupled with the skill of our other key managers, I believe no-one can match our new team's passion and expertise."

Working with Lapworth and team manager Paul Howarth, Moya will join Subaru in time for the start of the San Remo Rally on October 3. His main areas of responsibility will be driver management, event strategy, and managing the team's relationship with the sport's governing body, the FIA.