Pirtek backs Ford Oz rally effort

Long-time V8 Supercar sponsor, Pirtek has followed Ford Australia onto the dirt. Ford has announced the hydraulic hose and fitting service specialist group will take up naming rights of the maker's new rally team.

To be called Pirtek Rally Team Ford, the squad will debut at this weekend's opening round of the 2006 Australian Rally Championship, the Subaru Rally of Canberra.

Ford's return as a factory effort comes after a 25-year absence from the title. The maker was expected to open its account last October, however, problems with its bespoke rear-wheel drive Focus-based rally car delayed the debut.

The Pirtek-Ford agreement is for three years.

A full factory operation, Pirtek Rally Team Ford will be run from its own workshop within Ford Australia's Broadmeadows Manufacturing precinct.

"Pirtek has been a great friend of ours for a number of years, now it's great to have a true partnership in a program that we are both excited about," said new Ford Racing manager, Ray Price.

"Our goal is to ultimately enjoy the same success with Focus in the Australian Rally Championship as we have with Falcon in V8 Supercars," Price said.

Behind the wheel of the prototype Focus will be Michael Guest. Mark Stacey is the co-driver.

The Subaru Rally of Canberra kicks off with a ceremonial start in Canberra city on this Friday night (March 10) and involves 16 competitive stages over Saturday and Sunday.

Spectators can witness plenty of action first hand from the Kowen Central spectator point which will feature in multiple stages and five viewing areas. The location includes a water splash, jump and purpose-built tunnel.

The 2006 Australian Rally Championship is sponsored by NEC Computers. For more information on the ARC click here.