Petter Solberg has admitted it is unlikely that he will be able to take his place on the entry list for the opening round of the 2009 World Rally Championship as he seeks to secure his future in the series.

Solberg found himself without a drive after the shock announcement that Subaru was to call time on its WRC participation, with the former champion immediately going into talks with both the Japanese manufacturer and Prodrive to evaluate his future plans.

The Norwegian has so far made little comment about Subaru's decision to quit the WRC, but in a statement on his personal website, Solberg admitted that talks were ongoing to try and secure a programme although with Rally Ireland taking place next month, a trip to the Emerald Isle was unlikely.

“We are still talking to both Subaru and Prodrive, but we have not concluded on anything yet,” the statement read. “At the moment nothing is decided for 2009 and further.

“However, it is not likely that Petter will be in Ireland in the end of January 2009, due to tight schedules. Petter will do his best to sort something out as soon as possible, in order to be back in the WRC.”