Subaru not expecting home win

The Japanese team have traditionally performed well in the event. However, after not recording a victory so far this season, sporting director Luis Moya is being measured in his predictions.

The team will be bolstered with home favourite and reigning Production Car World Champion Toshi Arai in a third 2006-specification Impreza.

"Our record in Japan so far has been good; we've either won or led by a large margin," Moya said. "This year, however, we have to be realistic about what we can achieve.

"We were encouraged by the step forward in performance in Finland, particularly by Chris Atkinson's times on Sunday, but it will be a tough event.

"Petter has a good chance of a podium, which would be very satisfying for the army of Subaru fans we expect to be there, while Chris's pace in Finland shows he's capable of achieving a similar finish to his 2005 result.

"Of course we look forward to welcoming Toshi Arai back to the team for the first time since 2001; it will be very interesting to see him perform on his home rally in a WRC car."