WRC: Sainz completes first Ford test

The Spanish driver, who has signed a two-year-deal, was driving the Ford Focus in preparation for the first round of the season - January's Rally of Monte Carlo.

Sainz, and co-driver Luis Moya, both drove for the team in 1996 and 1997.

The duo spent three days acclimatising themselves to the Focus on the bumpy asphalt roads north of Barcelona.

'Even after just a few hours in the car I can sense the Focus has great potential and the first impressions are quite positive,' said Sainz.

'The chassis feels very good and the car seems well balanced. I spent quite a lot of time making small adjustments to see exactly how they affected the car's behaviour at speed.

'It's vital to learn how various modifications affect the handling to establish a base from which to work.

'I'm happy to be back with Ford. I already know the team, many of the mechanics and most of the engineers.

'I'll try my best to help Ford win the manufacturers' title, and we'll also try to win both titles next year.

'It's not going to be easy, but I'm here to help and the commitment is there. Ford is going back to the top.'

Ford motorsport boss Malcolm Wilson, who worked with Sainz at Ford in 1996 and 1997, was impressed with Sainz's contribution.

'After only a few runs over the test stage on the first day Carlos was providing excellent feedback for our engineers to work on,' said Wilson.

'His initial feelings about the Focus were very positive.

'He felt that the engine needed more power but we had a 1999-specification unit in the car so that was not unexpected. We will have a 2000 engine installed for our next test in Sweden.'

Ford's pre-season programme will continue with Sainz and team-mate Colin McRae testing in Sweden from December 13 -17, and a nine-day test in France in January.