Sainz running out of options

Carlos Sainz's chances of contesting a full WRC programme in 2003 appear to have been severely restricted after Hyundai - once thought to be his most likely suitor - confirmed that it will run just two cars next season

Nov 8, 2002, 1:01 PM

With Hyundai's current drivers Freddy Loix and Armin Schwarz under contract for 2003, Sainz has been left with only a slim hope of retaining his drive at Ford or possibly a limited programme with addition testing duties for Citroen.

For MSD, which has run Hyundai's rally programme for the past three seasons, the continued commitment of the Korean manufacturer is good news.

"By focusing on a two-car team we will be able to put the maximum effort and resource into further improving our performance and closing the gap on Subaru and Peugeot," said team principal David Whitehead. "This year has shown that the team, the drivers and the Accent has the agility, durability and speed to take the fight to the leading teams and we expect to be challenging for top five placings on a regular basis."

This year Hyundai has scored nine manufacturers points, putting it fourth equal in the championship.