MITSUBISHI has withdrawn from the Dakar Rally and all other cross-country races blaming the recession.
After 26 entries, 12 victories – which included seven consecutive wins – the maker has pulled the plug as the global economy deteriorates.
In its 26 entries in the event, Mitsubishi Motors won the rally a total of 12 times.
In addition to this unparalleled record the company also gained 4WD technology that made it onto its production vehicles.
‘The sudden deterioration of the global economy made it necessary for the company to focus its resources more tightly, and for this reason the decision was taken to withdraw Mitsubishi Motorsports (MMSP) works team from all cross-country competitions,’ said a spokesman.
The news follows Honda’s withdrawal from F1 and signals a sign of things to come as more makers axe their motorsport efforts.
