Mitsubishi withdraws from British Rally Championship

Mitsubishi Motors U.K. has withdrawn from the 2009 British Rally Championship.

The decision not to continue running the two-car works team is based on the current economic climate.

A statement from the organisation says the controversies during the 2008 season have played no part in leaving the series.

Driver Guy Wilks was hoping to move to the World scene with Suburu before they pulled out of the sport - he now finds his obvious route back to the British Championship also closed.

Mitsubishi say they hope to return to rallying once market conditions become more favourable.