Sainz 'may not retire'

The 41-year-old Spaniard admitted during a Citroen media event in Paris that he still loves driving and feels quick enough to do himself justice in the WRC.

"I was frustrated after GB, he said. "It's true that I announced I would retire after 2004 but I'm not a politician so I'm not obliged to fulfil all my promises!

"I am very proud and honoured to have competed in the championship showdown for Citroen and it's now not certain that I will retire at the end of 2004."

Sainz went into the final round of the 2003 series - Wales Rally GB - with a chance of taking his third world title. An incredibly consistent year and victory in Turkey meant that he could have taken the title for the first time since 1992.

Despite crashing out of the event and feeling frustrated at the result, Sainz admitted that his decision to call it a day was rushed.

"I asked myself if I was still quick enough, if there is a place for me in the WRC. The results are always there. I believe I am still competitive. It's still my passion. I am going to stop, sure, but perhaps not at the end of 2004. We will see what happens with my motivation and my results..."